Irish MEPs back GAA’s rural revival plan, urging policy reforms to combat depopulation.

A cross-party group of Irish MEPs has backed the GAA’s push to combat rural depopulation, urging the Irish government to implement nationwide reforms. They called for “rural proofing” of policies, housing changes allowing construction on family land, economic incentives, improved infrastructure, and expanded remote work opportunities. The MEPs support appointing a Rural Development Officer in each GAA county board and advocate for stronger collaboration with EU institutions. The initiative follows a meeting with GAA officials at Croke Park and reflects concerns over declining club numbers and rural decline.