The proposed merger of Laois GAA clubs Ballinakill and Ballypickas has collapsed.

A full merger of the neighbouring clubs was expected to take place after they had been combined at underage level for the past six years, but the partnership would now appear to be dead in the water at all levels. Amalgamations are a hot topic at the moment following the release of the GAA's National Demographics Report which highlighted Ireland's shifting population.

"Over the past six years, our club has partnered with Ballypickas GAA to field underage teams under the name Ballinakill-Ballypickas. Throughout that time, young players, coaches, and parents from both clubs have shown great commitment to this arrangement," Ballinakill GAA said in a statement posted on Facebook.

"Unfortunately, we have been unable to reach an agreement with Ballypickas GAA on the long-term future of this partnership. Despite putting forward three proposals over the past six years for a full and permanent amalgamation, building on the existing juvenile structure, it is evident that no agreement can be reached with Ballypickas GAA. 

"As a result, Ballinakill GAA will return to operating our own juvenile teams from the 2026 season onwards. Our priority is to provide a stable, positive environment for our players and to ensure the long-term development of hurling in the parish of Ballinakill.

"We want to thank all children, parents, and coaches from both clubs who have been part of the combined setup over the past number of years. We look forward to building the next chapter of Ballinakill hurling."

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