A pilot scheme aimed at establishing the best framework for the integration of the Ladies Football and Camogie Associations into the GAA was announced at Croke Park yesterday. Eight counties are involved in the scheme, which will run until October with the purpose of highlighting the various challenges in integrating the three Associations in a national context.

The eight counties taking part in the initial scheme are Galway, Roscommon, Limerick, Tipperary, Tyrone, Down, Laois and Wexford. GAA president Sean McCague said the initiative marks the desire of all three Associations to go forward as a united entity in the promotion of their shared ideals.

"The potential of all three Associations and their effectiveness in promoting Gaelic Games can best be achieved through a concerted effort on all our parts," he said. "We share common goals and ideals and there is already significant crossover in our activities on the ground in terms of shared facilities and coaching and games promotion strategies".

McCague admitted that integration had already effectively taken place in many clubs around the country. "In many ways our coming together has always been perceived as inevitable. Indeed in many instances at club level, integration has already effectively taken place."

Also speaking at the announcement was President McAleese, who felt that "Gaelic Games have entered an era of sophistication, composure and confidence which is truly remarkable. Naturally it now looks to areas where fresh synergies can be released and this obvious alliance is one of those."

The integration process will be monitored by a steering committee appointed in each county. This committee will consist of two representatives from each Association and will have responsibility for formulating an integration framework suitable to each county, with emphasis on areas such as membership and the shared use of resources and facilities.

"Individually, we can be proud of our respective histories," added McCague. "Next year, the Camogie Association celebrates its centenary and in a colourful and vivid history has given much to the women of Ireland.

"And our Ladies football Association, although only founded in 1974, has expanded dramatically in its short existence."