Laois Senator wears shorts into Seanad chamber

Senator Maria McCormack wore a pair of shorts into the Seanad chamber to show solidarity with camogie players who are calling for the right to choose between wearing shorts or skorts during matches.

The protest follows recent actions by players from Dublin, Kilkenny, and Laois, among other counties, who wore shorts instead of the traditionally mandated skorts to their matches – a move that led to players being told to leave the pitch to change into skorts, or the match would be abandoned.

The Laois Sinn Fein Senator said: “I want to acknowledge the Laois camogie players who on Monday, at their game against Kilkenny, they joined this growing stand for fairness and respect."

Senator McCormack said it was not a new issue.  "Camogie players first challenged the skort rule in 1959 – 65 years ago. "Today, the message is clear, 70% of players say skorts are uncomfortable, and 83% want a choice.  They’re not asking for special treatment, just the basic right to wear what makes them feel comfortable and able to perform."

According to Senator McCormack, “other sports have already updated their dress codes in line with modern standards and player comfort.  It’s time for camogie to follow suit."

“If we want to grow camogie, if we want to keep girls in sport and help them feel respected and empowered, we must listen.  One in five girls drop out of sport by the age of 14.  Are we surprised?" she asked. 

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“The current plan to wait until 2026 or 2027 is not good enough.  Players have spoken.  The Camogie Association must act now,” said Senator McCormack.