Currently racial abuse in the GAA is seen as a Category IV offence whereas threatening language towards a referee is a Category V offence - receiving a minimum of 12 weeks suspension in all codes and at all levels.

This racial abuse infraction is covered under Rule 7.2, Category IV (ix), and is penalised under Rule 7.2 (e):

“A minimum of 8 weeks suspension. Debarment and Expulsion from the Association may also be considered.”

We strongly believe there is a serious problem with disciplinary action administered when punishment for committing a racism offence can be significantly lower than that of other, far less severe infractions - for example, playing an illegal player. This "infraction" has consistently been treated with a 48-week ban from football in the past.

We believe a higher sanction, the highest possible of expulsion as minimum, would be best to eradicate this racist behaviour and further protect our players. The GAA have stated they have "Zero Tolerance for Racism", they operate under a “Give Respect, Get Respect” programme, and just last year launched a “Responding to Racism” campaign, however, allowing an offending player return to our sport - possibly after 8 weeks - shows neither zero tolerance or respect.   

Despite the GAA’s own “GAA: Where We All Belong” campaign, it is clear respect, diversity, and inclusivity are not at the forefront of all clubs. More must be done to protect our players. The current disciplinary action shows a lack of utmost care and protection for our club members, throughout the entire worldwide organisation.

Therefore, as the Governing Body, we call for the GAA to immediately and urgently launch an overhaul of their punishments for infractions, to match their campaigns and policies, and expel players who betray themselves, their clubs, other players, and the Association with racist abuse.