“In relation to the hosting of the 2012 World Handball Championships and associated costs the GAA would like to make it clear that Acting President Walter O’Connor had no responsibility in any sign-off for the financial spend but in conjunction with the GAA worked tirelessly to put a plan in place to deal with this matter.
The cost of the championships was borne by the GAA, and not GAA Handball. There has not been an adverse impact on investment in GAA Handball since then. The GAA have and will continue to be supportive of GAA Handball and will continue to offer financial assistance to projects and initiatives that are worthy of investment. Evidence of this is the new Handball Centre.
The agreement that was entered into at the time was that the cost of the tournament would be covered by the GAA over a number of years and this is the only reason a diminishing amount is still on the GAA Handball Accounts each year. This plan is in place since 2013 and is working so there is no immediate need to alter this.
We would like to make it clear that Walter O’Connor acted with great integrity in this matter as did the GAA for the benefit of Irish Handball. It is acknowledged that any misconceptions or misunderstandings on this matter has caused trauma and hurt to Mr. O’Connor and his family. The GAA would like to thank Walter O’Connor for his dedication and contribution to Irish Handball.”