Leitrim Secretary Bohan questions how long inter-county spend can be sustained

Leitrim GAA County Board Secretary Declan Bohan has asked how long the spend on inter-county activity can be sustained in his final Secretary’s report to Convention next Tuesday in the Bush Hotel.

Writing under the heading of finance, Declan said “Thankfully the spend on inter-county activity has reversed its recent upward trend, but this could be partially explained by the fact that we had much reduced ‘foreign’ travel in 2024. 

“It must be acknowledged that a significant reduction was achieved in the net spending on the Senior Hurlers this year through the initiatives implemented by the hurlers themselves, this is to be lauded. 

“However, inter-county activity still remains a significant burden on the finances of the county. One wonders how long it can be sustained. However, successes over the past year on the playing field have brought the smile back.”

Declan also writes that the popular 50 Miles in January Challenge would not take place in 2025, replaced by a Quid Games in March: “The success again of the 50 Mile January Challenge was very pleasing and we thank all who contributed to make it such a success from the organising committee to the participants and all who contributed. 

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“It has continued to provide us with a great financial boost at the start of the year.  The significant contribution by Leitrim County Council last January has made it a county wide partnership. We thank the ambassadors for the positivity they have exuded in promoting the event.

“It has been decided to park the Challenge for this year as we embark on a new fund raiser for 2025. We look forward to the success of Quid Games in March and it will be launched very soon. We hope all will get behind it as we enter a full share arrangement with Leitrim LGFA.”

Declan highlighted the importance of the Leitrim Supporters Club and Patrons' Fund to the County Board: “The Leitrim GAA Supporters Club was as successful as heretofore. The cooperation of our clubs is tantamount to its success in any given year and we thank the organising committee and all the sellers for their excellent work in 2024. 

“The Patrons’ Fund has yielded a rich harvest again in 2024. Significant sums of money have been pledged towards a fund that will aid the preparation of the County Senior Football Team over the next number of years. We thank all associated with the organisation of this venture and indeed all those who have donated generously to the fund. 

“Our thanks again to our many loyal sponsors. Cisteoir Martin will have dealt with this aspect in much greater detail but suffice it for me to say on behalf of Coiste Chontae Liatroma, we are again greatly indebted to the many who have backed us over 2024. We look forward to continuing our good relationship over the coming year. We thank particularly main team sponsor Pat Gallagher of the Gallagher Group who has been a most generous benefactor over the past 12 months.”