A number of counties are set to ask the Camogie Association to consider relaxing the rule on skorts being mandatory for players – even though the issue cannot be voted upon again until 2027.
Last weekend saw camogie players from Dublin and Kilkenny attempt to play their Leinster semi-final in shorts as a protest against the compulsory wearing of skorts which must be worn under rules of the Camogie Association.
The protest came days after a Gaelic Players Association survey highlighted how 70% of players surveyed experienced discomfort while wearing the skort.
In total, the survey found that 83% of players wanted an option to choose to wear shorts, or have the option to wear shorts.
This viewpoint, through four motions, was also brought forward at last year's Camogie Association annual congress but delegates voted against the proposals to replace the skort entirely, and the suggestion to add shorts to the options available to players.
Under rule, the Camogie Association will not be able to revisit the issue or vote on this matter again before 2027.
However, RTÉ Sport understands that some counties are exploring requesting an exemption, or relaxation of a rule on the matter.
Counties considering this approach have focused on the section surrounding administrative structures, powers and duties of the organisation.
Specifically, Rule 10.5 (C) of the Camogie Association’s official guide states that: "Ard Chomhairle may consider derogation requests from a specific rule, where strict adherence to the Rule may not be in the best interests of the Association."
It also clarifies that such applications must be accompanied by supporting evidence as set out by Ard Chomhairle.
The rules adds that such permission may only be given in exceptional circumstances in the interests of the promotion of camogie. Applications for permission for derogation can be made annually.
"RTÉ Sport understands that some counties are in the process of mapping out exactly how the current events are detrimental to the promotion of the game and could be suitable for relaxation."
This comes just days after Labour Party TD and chairman of the Oireachtas Sports Committee, Alan Kelly said he intends to invite the Camogie Association to the committee to deal with the issue of skorts in camogie "once and for all".
Mr Kelly said rules forcing camogie players to wear skorts are "bananas in today's day and age".
"It beggars belief that at a time when we should be working to continue encouraging women and girls to participate in sport, we’d see an own goal like this from the Camogie Association," Mr Kelly added.
The Camogie Association has, in the past few days, stated that player welfare is at the heart of everything they do across the organisation.
In a statement, they said that a democratic vote at Congress last year determined that the rules governing their playing wear should not change.
"Ard Chomhairle established a working group to examine issues around the comfort, fit, design and overall performance of playing wear.
"As part of this process, a wide range of national and international manufactured skorts have been sourced.
"Testing of these skorts for comfort, fit and design, will begin in mid-May and will include adult and juvenile players from club and county teams, as well as referees."
The Camogie Association said that once testing is completed, the working group will prepare recommendations for Ard Chomhairle consideration.
The statement added that the Camogie Association remains committed to respecting the democratic process in all decisions that affect all members.
"Voting delegates at Congress represent all the members of the Association, including players and parents of players across the country."
In the past few years the game of camogie has enjoyed a step up in quality, increasing crowds at finals, the positive establishment of an U23 series and a growing profile.
This matter, however, looks set to continue to prove problematic as players continue to voice their calls for the option of shorts to be added.
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