1638. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport if a multi-annual funding pathway for senior inter-county player grants is under consideration by his Department; the engagement his Department and Sport Ireland have had with an organisation (details supplied) since October 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62084/26]

Decisions about financial support to athletes within a sport are ultimately matters for the National Governing Bodies of those sports, in this case the GAA, LGFA and the Camogie Association.

The Gaelic Players Association (GPA) has submitted a pre-Budget funding submission to my Department in which it has sought a significant increase in Exchequer funding support.

This will be given due consideration in the context of the outcome for my Department of the Budget 2027 negotiation process and taking account of the funding demands across the Department, particularly in the context of the funding needs and demands from a wide range of sports.

Regarding engagement with the GPA, my department had 3 engagements since October 2025:

• Photocall with the Gaelic Players Association - 18 February 2026.

• Meeting with the Gaelic Players Association - 7th May 2026.

• Photocall with the Gaelic Players Association - 19 May 2026.

Regarding Sport Ireland, I have referred the Deputy's question to Sport Ireland for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to inform my office if a reply is not received within 10 days.