County Planning

County Planning Guide – Overview

The GAA’s County Planning Guide helps County Committees create and implement strategic plans to grow and develop Gaelic games in their counties. The process is built around four key questions:

1. Where are we now?
2. Where do we want to go?
3. How will we get there?
4. How will we measure progress?

The GAA has developed a five-stage planning process to guide Counties from start to finish. Each County should form a Steering Group, led by a Planning Leader and Coordinator, with support from a Planning Mentor provided by the Provincial Council.

Read more about the benefits and planning process here:

County Planning Guide and Toolkit

Support Provided

• A proven strategic planning process
• 10+ templates
• On-demand support
• Follow-up help for implementation and review

Frequently Asked Questions

Who writes the plan?

The Planning Coordinator and Leader are responsible for drafting the plan. Drafts should be reviewed by the Steering Group. 

Can we include our own focus areas and themes?

Yes. Each County should base its Key Focus Areas (KFAs) on its own needs, not on previous plans or templates. See the Focus Area Mapping advice note in the Toolkit for guidance.

Is financial support available for design or printing?

No. Counties must cover any design or printing costs themselves.

What if the process stalls?

If progress slows, the Planning Leader and Coordinator should re-engage the group, explain the importance of the process, and agree on next steps. Contact your Planning Mentor for support.

Can we see examples of other County plans?

To view a number of previous and current County Plans, visit: County Planning Folder.

Getting Started

1. Review the guidelines and resources available: County Planning Guide and Toolkit
2. Contact your Provincial Council today to find out more.  Current contact details are: