Cumann na mBunscol an Duin AGM

The Annual General Meeting of Cumann na mBunscol an Duin was held in the Leitrim GAC Clubhouse on Thursday 6 Oct 2005. An Cathaoirleach, Pat Watterson welcomed all present and in particular Mr Jerry Quinn Cathaoirleach Coiste an Duin, Chairman Coaching and Development Committee Eamonn O’Hare, newly appointed County Administrator Sean Og McAteer and Games Promotional Officer Mr John Crossey.  The minutes of last year’s meeting were tabled and accepted by the members.

An Runai, Michael Hanly then gave his report on the activities undertaken in 2004-05. He outlined the various competitions undertaken throughout the school year and how the commitment, co-operation and dedication of the teachers and the coaches ensured this success. He stated how the success of the County Minor team reflected favourably on the coaching work done in the schools and the underage structures in the county. He commended the introduction of competitions for girls in the past year’s programme and the increased participation the annual Table Quiz. However the lack of general interest in the areas of Hurling and Camogie gave cause for concern and a further initiative in these areas deserved consideration. On behalf of Coiste he thanked:

¨      All who participated in the competitions

¨      The Principals and teachers who continued to promote our games in spite of constraints of time and resources

·        The clubs who willingly provided facilities

¨      The County Board for its continued encouragement and support

¨      The Coaching Officers for their professionalism and expertise

¨      The local press for its coverage

¨      Allianz for its continued sponsorship

He concluded with the hope that, although the programme of events is extensive, every school will make an effort to participate in as many activities as possible in the coming year.

The attendance warmly applauded Mr Hanly for his report.

The Treasurer, Gerry O’Reilly, tabled his financial report and answered any queries in relation to it. His report was accepted by the members.

Under Chairman’s Business, Pat Watterson applauded the commitment of the teachers in our schools of which over fifty were now registered in our association. The schools were now more aware of their role in the promotion of gaelic games and our coaches’ assistance was invaluable in this. While stressing the need for an initiative in the areas of hurling and camogie, much had been achieved in other areas such as girls’ football and our cultural quiz. He thanked the other members of the Coiste and in particular Michael Hanly and Gerry O’Reilly who gave so willingly of their time.

He finished by inviting Gerry Quinn, County Chairman to officiate at the election of officers. 

Following a proposal duly seconded by the members, a suggestion was tabled that the Coiste be re-elected en masse and this was accepted by all those present. The following were re-elected:

Cathaoirleach               Pat Watterson
An Runai                      Michael Hanly
Treasurer                      Gerry O’Reilly
PRO                            Paddy Campbell

Mr Pat Watterson invited Jerry Quinn to address the meeting.

Mr Jerry Quinn outlined the County Board plans for the promotion of gaelic games. He suggested that the onus was placed on primary schools to find the space in the crowded curriculum for the promotion of gaelic games and culture. He appreciated that children in primary schools were most impressionable and that the coaches must support the schools in achieving this development of our games. He expressed his disappointment at the lack of progress in hurling and camogie and appealed for greater interest and support in these areas. He paid tribute to the quality of the reports given at the meeting and indicated his awareness of the professionalism of the officers through his regular contact. He mentioned the present GAA initiative for GO Games and invited Mr Eamon O’Hare to enlighten those present on this development. He finished by profusely thanking all those teachers who gave so willingly of their time to develop this love of gaelic culture to the children in our primary schools.

Eamonn O’Hare, Chairman of the Coaching & Development Committee addressed the Cumann on the initiative for GO Games which is presently being introduced throughout the GAA fraternity. He briefly outlined the main proposals of this initiative which will radically change our coaching procedures at juvenile level. He assured those present that shortly there will be a county launch of this which owes its origin on the ideology of full participation, fair play, enjoyment and skill development. All present were given a FUN DO booklet outlining the schemata for this initiative.

Mr Jerry Quinn invited all those present to be seated for the Dinner hosted by the Down County Board and provided by the Leitrim GAC Catering Committee.  After the five course meal, Pat Watterson commended the Catering Committee on such a wonderful meal and the Leitrm GAC for the use of their excellent facilities while appreciating the generosity of the County Board in providing the meal.