Over the last few weeks, the Children’s Commissioner has held introductory meetings with leaders from the Irish Football Association (IFA), the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), and Ulster Rugby to discuss the promotion and protection of children’s rights within the realm of sport.
During these discussions, areas of mutual interest were discussed, as well as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), with the Commissioner highlighting why it should be fully incorporated into domestic law.
If legislated for, incorporation of the UNCRC, would have significant positive impacts on children’s right to play, rest, and engage in leisure, and recreational activities as well as promoting their right to form and join groups, clubs, or organisations.
“Following my recent meetings with the IFA, GAA, and Ulster Rugby, I am heartened by their dedication to safeguarding and promoting children’s rights within the sporting community,” said the Children’s Commissioner.
“Play and active movement are essential for children’s physical growth, coordination, and motor skills, but they also contribute significantly to their emotional resilience, confidence, and social skills.”
Chris Quinn added: “Ensuring that children have access to inclusive, enjoyable, and safe sporting environments allows them to explore their potential, build friendships, and develop important life skills such as teamwork, resilience, and respect.”
The meetings also focused on collaboration to promote children’s well-being through sports, advocating for environments that prioritise children’s rights and development.
CEO of Ulster Rugby, Hugh McCaughey, said: “As the governing body for rugby across the province, we at Ulster Rugby fully support the Children’s Commissioner and NICCY on promoting the importance and protection of children’s rights within sport.
“Rugby is an inclusive community sport that is hugely positive for children’s physical activity and their development. Being a team-based sport, those elements of fostering team spirit and resilience are at the core of our game.
“Ulster Rugby will continue to work in collaboration with the GAA and the IFA to promote safeguarding and children’s right to play within sport.”
CEO of IFA, Patrick Nelson, said: “The Irish FA is dedicated to making football accessible to every child across Northern Ireland. As a core strategic priority, we strive to create inclusive environments where all children can enjoy the game while supporting their personal growth and development.”
“Our Youth Football Framework is closely aligned with the mission, vision, and values of NICCY. It cultivates a positive and supportive atmosphere for young players and offers clear guidance to coaches, referees, parents, and supporters on how to contribute to a rewarding and meaningful football experience.
“We are committed to ensuring that participation opportunities are both age-appropriate and inclusive. Furthermore, our Facilities Strategy focuses on expanding the availability of quality pitches, enabling more children to engage in play, recreation, and physical activity within safe and welcoming spaces.”
Director General of the GAA, Tom Ryan, said: “While primarily a sporting Association, the GAA is also perhaps the biggest youth engagement and development organisation in Ireland.
“We take that role very seriously and so we were delighted to get the opportunity to meet with both the Children Commissioner (NI) and Ombudsman for Children (ROI) to deepen our understanding of each other’s work, and to see the clear alignment that already exists.”
The Commissioner and the team at NICCY look forward to building on these relationships and working closely with the GAA, IFA, Ulster Rugby, and other stakeholders to support children’s right to play and leisure, making these opportunities accessible and meaningful for all children across the region.
