Dealing with allegations of abuse
Dealing with Concerns or Allegations of Abuse
At Clane GAA, the safety and well-being of children, young people, and vulnerable people is our highest priority. All forms of abuse are taken seriously, and concerns are handled sensitively, professionally, and in line with the GAA Safeguarding Policy.
As part of the GAA’s safeguarding commitment, we are required to follow both the Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children and the GAA Guidance for Dealing with & Reporting Allegations or Concerns of Abuse. These provide a clear framework for how concerns are responded to within Gaelic Games.
What the Club Will Do
If a concern or allegation of abuse is raised:
As part of the GAA’s safeguarding commitment, we are required to follow both the Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children and the GAA Guidance for Dealing with & Reporting Allegations or Concerns of Abuse. These provide a clear framework for how concerns are responded to within Gaelic Games.
What the Club Will Do
If a concern or allegation of abuse is raised:
- The welfare and protection of the child will always come first.
- The matter will be treated seriously, confidentially, and promptly.
- Clane GAA will follow the nationally agreed reporting procedures.
- Allegations are forwarded to the appropriate statutory authorities (such as Tusla or An Garda Síochána) as required by law.
- The Club will support the child and their family through the process.
- Investigation of alleged abuse is carried out by the statutory authorities, not by the Club.
Who Handles Safeguarding Concerns at the Club
Designated Liaison Person (DLP)
The Designated Liaison Person for the club is responsible for responding to concerns about child abuse and ensuring they are reported appropriately.
DLP Contact:
Name: Greg Daniel
Email: childrensofficer.clane.kildare@gaa.ie
Phone: 083 023 5194
The DLP does not provide counselling, therapeutic support, or investigate the concern themselves — their role is to report and refer appropriately and to guide the club’s safeguarding response.
How to Raise a Concern
If You Are a Young Person
You have the right to be safe and protected.
If you believe you are being harmed, are worried that you might be harmed, or are concerned about someone else, please:
- Talk to an adult you trust (parent, guardian, coach, Children’s Officer)
- Contact the Club Children’s Officer or DLP
- If you are in immediate danger, call 999 and follow Gardaí advice
Everyone has the right to be listened to and supported.
If You Are an Adult
If you believe a child at our club may be being harmed or abused, or you have concerns about someone working with children, please:
- Contact the Children’s Officer or the DLP immediately
- Provide as much information as you can — you do not need proof
- The concern will be recorded and processed in line with policy
- You may also be advised of how to contact Tusla or Gardaí
Remember: you do not need to investigate the matter yourself. Reporting a concern helps protect the child and ensures the right agencies become involved.
Mandated Persons and National Contacts
GAA associations have designated Mandated Persons with responsibility to report certain disclosures under national statutory requirements.
National Mandated Contacts
- GAA: mandatedperson@gaa.ie
- LGFA: mandatedperson@lgfa.ie
- Camogie: mandatedperson@camogie.ie
- Handball: mandatedperson.handball@gaa.ie
These contacts support local DLPs and Children’s Officers and are available for advice if needed.
Useful Resources & Links
Here are some important resources you may find helpful:
GAA Child Safeguarding Policy & Allegations Guidance
GAA Guidance for Dealing with & Reporting Allegations of Abuse (PDF)
GAA Child Safeguarding Policy - previously the Code of Behaviour (Underage)
Tusla – Child Protection & Welfare
Children First Act & Guidance
Links are regularly updated to reflect current policy and guidance.
Important Note
Clane GAA takes all allegations of abuse seriously. While the Club is committed to responding appropriately and supporting those affected, the investigation of suspected abuse is the responsibility of the statutory authorities. The Club will always cooperate fully with Tusla and An Garda Síochána where required.
Need Help Now?
If a child is in immediate danger, always call 999 and follow the advice of the Gardaí.
If you think a child is at immediate risk but not in emergency circumstances, please contact Tusla Duty Social Worker:
Local Tusla Duty Social Worker - 01 6400665
Clane GAA
Founded 1884