Mullingar Shamrocks GAA Club is fully committed to creating and maintaining the safest possible environment for all young people who participate in our activities. We take all possible steps to safeguard children from any discernable forms of abuse, harm, discrimination or degrading treatment and we respect their rights, wishes and feelings. Mullingar Shamrocks has, as is legally required under the terms of the Children First Act (2015), its associated Children First: National Guidance, and the GAA Our Games – Our Code Guidelines, a designated Children’s Officer, Oonagh O'Donoghue who is central to the Club’s policy on Child Welfare and ensuring that young people can participate, enjoy and benefit from our Gaelic Games in safe and enjoyable surroundings.
Mullingar Shamrocks implements a child-centred approach and philosophy that recognises that the welfare of the child is paramount and ensures that each child is provided with developmental opportunities that are appropriate to their age and abilities. In our work with young people and with adults GAA national policy documents act as a resource and govern our commitments. These are
- The Child Safeguarding Policy [formerly titled the Code of Behaviour (Underage)] jointly published and agreed by the Gaelic Athletic Association, Camogie Association, Ladies Gaelic Football Association, Rounders Council of Ireland and the Irish Handball Council.
- Ladies Gaelic Football Association’s Code of Ethics and Good Practice for Young Players. These are in addition to the guidance provided in Children First: National Guidance which is designed to be used side by side with the Children First Act (2015) If you are
i) a Youth Member (Under-18) who is worried about your treatment within the club OR ii) an adult member or parent who has any concerns about the welfare of a child you are urged to contact the Children’s Officer, Oonagh O'Donoghue
The key role of the Club Children’s Officer is to ensure the implementation and promotion of the relevant Child Welfare and Protection Codes and Guidelines for good practice in Mullingar Shamrocks, so as to ensure that young people can participate, enjoy and benefit from our Gaelic Games in safe and enjoyable surroundings.
The Code of Behaviour (Underage) and Child Safeguarding Policy Statement is the agreed good practice reference and policy document that is central to guiding the Children’s Officer in this important role. We oversee the implementation of Garda Vetting checks, as appropriate, within the Club.
Mullingar Shamrocks Designated Liaison Person: David Nohilly
