On Tuesday evening, 22nd July 2025, Wicklow County Council and Wicklow GAA joined forces at Echelon Park, Aughrim County Grounds, to host a ground-breaking Sustainability Information Evening. The event aimed to empower GAA clubs across the county to take the lead on climate action and biodiversity.
Running from 8-9:30pm, the evening attracted over 60 attendees, including representatives from 27 of Wicklow’s GAA clubs, members of the County Board, elected officials, council staff, and sustainability experts. Through a mix of expert presentations, local case studies, and practical support, the gathering served as a powerful call to action for clubs to become environmental leaders within their communities.
The event opened with a compelling welcome address from Cllr. Melanie Corrigan, Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council: “As Cathaoirleach, I am proud to see Wicklow GAA and Wicklow County Council collaborate to drive sustainability at the heart of our sporting and community life. Clubs like Éire Óg Greystones and Kiltegan are already demonstrating what’s possible when we think long-term and act locally. With the right support, all of our clubs can become shining examples of what climate action looks like, both on the ground and on the pitch.”
Cllr. Corrigan highlighted the growing collaboration between local government and the GAA, encouraging attendees to explore various opportunities from LED lighting and biodiversity trails to becoming a Sustainable Energy Community (SEC).
The evening was chaired by Damien Byrne, Chairperson of Wicklow GAA, who emphasised the GAA’s expanding role as a community leader in sustainability: “The GAA is at the heart of community life in Wicklow, which brings with it the responsibility to preserve our traditions and protect our environment. Tonight is about sharing ideas, learning from one another, and committing to action. With 13 clubs already signed up for the GAA Green Club Programme, this is just the beginning. We want every club in Wicklow to join this movement and focus on sustainability.”
He expressed gratitude to all speakers, organizers, and club representatives, reaffirming Wicklow GAA’s commitment to developing a county-level Sustainable Energy Community team, with guidance from the SEAI and the local SEC mentor.
Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council Emer O’Gorman, praised the collaborative spirit of the event: “Climate action isn’t solely the responsibility of the government; it’s a community effort. What we witnessed tonight is Wicklow at its best: volunteers, clubs, experts and local government coming together to build a healthier, more resilient future. The Council remains fully committed to supporting clubs through funding, guidance, and our partnership with the GAA Green Club Programme.”
She also highlighted the alignment between the Green Club themes and Wicklow’s Climate Action Plan, adopted in 2024, which includes specific actions to work with the GAA and the Climate Action Regional Office (CARO) to promote and support sustainability initiatives across the county.
The evening featured an array of expert speakers and practical guidance:
Olive Farrell, Sustainability Officer for Wicklow GAA, presented on local sustainability progress and club-level action.
Mark Costello, Climate Action Coordinator at Wicklow County Council, introduced the Council’s climate strategy and supports.
Míde Ní Shúilleabháin and Padraig Fallon from the national GAA Green Clubs Programme outlined key frameworks and resources for clubs ready to take action.
Julie Sammiller, Community Climate Action Officer, explained the Community Climate Action Fund, which awarded over €646,000 in 2024, benefiting several clubs. This Fund is expected to open again in September 2025.
Gavin Harte, SEAI mentor, introduced the Sustainable Energy Communities programme and the benefits of developing Energy Master Plans.
Alison Keogh from Wicklow Partnership highlighted the availability of €3.9 million in LEADER funding for environmental, community, and economic initiatives.
A highlight of the evening was the sharing of real-world club experiences. Helen O’Driscoll (Éire Óg Greystones) and Colm Doyle (Kiltegan GAA) shared inspiring case studies showcasing how steps such as installing LED floodlights, solar PV, water refill stations and biodiversity-planted areas are already making a difference. Clubs were introduced to guidance on Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS) and the Pollinator-Friendly Sports Club manual, recently published by the National Biodiversity Data Centre, offering innovative ways to enhance biodiversity, such as growing club colours with native wildflowers.
Theresa O’Brien, Director of Services at Wicklow County Council, concluded the evening by recognizing the energy and engagement shown by all attendees, reinforcing the importance of collective action for a sustainable future.
IMAGES
Picture 1: (Rear L to R ) Cllr Shane Langrell, Cllr Patsy Glennon, Martin Coleman (County Board), Collie Doyle (Kiltegan GAA), Helen O'Driscoll (Eire Og Greystones GAA), Liam Cullen (County Board), Alison Keogh (Wicklow Partnership), Gavin Harte (SEC Regional Coordinator), Mide O'Shuilleabhain (GAA Green Club), James Callery (Wicklow County Council Climate Action Officer), David Murray (County Board), Theresa O'Brien (Wicklow County Council Director of Services), Padraig Fallon (GAA Green Club), Cllr Graham Richmond and Cllr. Louise Fenelon Gaskin
(Front L to R) Cllr Avril Cronin, Mark Costello (Wicklow County Council Climate Action Coordinator), Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council Cllr. Melanie Corrigan, Damien Byrne (Chairperson of Wicklow GAA), Olive Farrell (Sustainability Officer Wicklow GAA),
Picture 2: (L to R) Cllr. Graham Richmond, Ann O'Keane and John Smith
Picture 3: (L to R) Julie Sammiller, Alison Keogh, Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council Cllr. Melanie Corrigan, Cllr. Louise Fenelon Gaskin, Helen O'Driscoll and Mark Costello
Picture 4: Siobhan Whelan and Alison Keogh
Picture 5: (L to R) Niamh Graham, John O'Neill, Collie Doyle and Rowan Conron