Initial steps to establish a mechanism to support the development of Gaelic games and culture were taken late in 2005 when a group of like minded Antrim affiliated GAA fans gathered together to agree a course of action which would ultimately lead to on field success for our representative teams. Club Aontroma was formed and in the intervening period we have secured charitable status, formed an Executive Committee and begun to make contact with a range of people from right across the county and beyond.

We have established a positive working relationship with the County Board in Antrim and the County Chairman, John McSparran has nominated two members of the Executive to sit on our committee, while some of our members sit on the County Finance and PR committees.

We believe that a successful GAA in Antrim will help to lift the entire county, from Belfast to the Glens in a way which will bring enjoyment, pride and a sense of belonging which will benefit all who live in County Antrim.

How will money be used?

Funds raised through the efforts of Club Aontroma will be made available to the county board and the management of our county teams on a basis agreed by Club Aontroma. Over the coming weeks we will be putting in place our own Club Aontroma strategy and plan and we will continue to work closely with the county board as they set their own funding priorities.

Funds raised by Club Aontroma will be used exclusively to further the aims and objectives of Club Aontroma.

The business of Club Aontroma will be conducted in a transparent and open manner. We will publish audited accounts as appropriate and we welcome queries and support from anyone who supports our efforts.

What does charitable status mean for donors?

Because we have been recognized as a charitable body Club Aontroma can claim a further 28p for every £1 contributed by any taxpayer. For those donors who fall into the higher tax bracket further tax relief will be claimed via their Tax Returns in the order of 23p approximately meaning that in effect it would only cost a higher rate tax payer 77p for Club Aontroma to be in receipt of £1.28 for each £1 donated.

Contributions to Club Aontroma from sole traders, partnerships, limited companies etc may qualify for full relief against taxes at their highest effective rate.