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GAA county boards should provide welcome kits for newborns – Lynch

4th July 2025 - Senator Eileen Lynch

GAA county boards across the country should gift newborns with a club jersey, said a Fine Gael Senator.

Senator Eileen Lynch has encouraged Cork GAA and other county clubs to follow a heartwarming new initiative that is currently being carried out by Bologna FC to promote club community spirit from a young age.

“Bologna FC, in partnership with their local government, provides free jerseys to all babies born in Bologna, before they even leave the hospital. The Italian team provides the jerseys in club-coloured boxes to parents of newborns throughout the city.

“It’s also been done with the San Marino national team with the aim of inspiring a new generation of fans.

“I’d encourage Cork GAA, other county clubs and O’Neill’s to follow Bologna FC’s lead and consider this initiative as a way to develop community spirit and strengthen local identity.

“Introducing this initiative would help demonstrate our strong sense of community spirit to all the community. It tells all new parents that they and their children are part of something bigger, they are part of a proud supportive community with a rich history.

“Cork is a county with a rich GAA history that is underlined with both passion and pride. As we head into the All-Ireland Hurling Semi Final, support for our team has never been stronger.

“GAA clubs across the country endeavour to foster a sense of community and create a bond with fans from a young age and gifting a welcome kit to all newborns would be a lovely starting point”, concluded Senator Lynch.