Liam O'Neill received a standing ovation from delegates following his final address to Congress as GAA President today.

The Laois native's three year term comes to an end today when he will hand the baton over to Cavan's Aogán Ó Fearghail.

"Over the past three years I have been privileged to witness at first hand, the massive impact made by the men and women of this great organisation who give their time voluntarily as players, officials, mentors or supporters," O'Neill told delegates.

"The GAA is in a good place at the moment. Our Games are going really well, Discipline and refereeing were never better.

"Delegates, in our 130 year history we have seen our country come through the struggle for our land and the fight for home rule. We helped inspire the fight for freedom. We have survived two world wars and numerous recessions.

"When we seemed weak we have proven to be at our strongest.

"While we did not succeed in uniting the GAA family in the past three years we have set it on an irreversible course towards total integration.

"I first dreamed of being president of the GAA at the age of eight. This boy's dream has now come to a conclusion some fifty years later. I have indeed lived my dream. Three years ago when my election was unopposed, I told you that my only wish was to serve this organisation not to rule it.

"As I hand over to Aogán later today, I do so in the knowledge that I can do no more. I gave this job every ounce of energy I have. I am tired but happy.

"We are and must remain a value driven, community based, family centred, games driven, player focused and games and cultural organisation

"As long as we don't forget what makes us strong - we need never fear for our future. I know our best days are still ahead.

"Finally, I now want to thank all of you and every member of this great and proud organisation for allowing me the honour of serving you as your Uachtarán."

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