Farrell: GPA to remain independent of GAA

THE GPA said yesterday that last weekend’s annual Congress hinted at a potentially progressive era for relations between the group and Croke Park, but chief executive Dessie Farrell reiterated again that his group will remain independent of the GAA.

Farrell said the GPA were particularly pleased that Congress addressed the issue of club and county suspensions. “This issue of club versus county suspensions has been on our agenda for some time now and it is heartening to see that our discussion with Croke Park have been constructive in this regard.

“Further, we fully believe that the new President’s intentions with regard to players are sincere, and whilst the GPA does not share his enthusiasm for the establishment of a players body controlled by Croke Park, we look forward to continued progressive discussion on all matters relating to player welfare.

“We wish Sean Kelly every success with his term of office.”

However despite enjoying a warmer relationship with the current incumbent of the President’s office, Farrell said the GPA will not come under the auspices of the GAA.

“Our group made its decision in January to remain independent of Croke Park and that is what we wish to remain. There is no reason for another players’ committee in situ. At all times, the GPA should be the port of call for Croke Park when they are discussing player issues.”

Meanwhile, Farrell welcomed the recent verdict in the English Court of Appeals, regarding the image rights action brought by Eddie Irvine against Talksport radio. The judgement made on April 1st 2003, upheld Irvine’s win in the High Court last year when Talksport falsely suggested he was endorsing the station, using his image in an advertisement.

Farrell believes the judgement, which raised the level of damages from £2,000 to £25,000 and relieved Irvine of the burden of paying almost £250,000 in costs, is ground-breaking and will have implications for players as they look to protect their own image rights.

“It definitely sets a precedent,” Farrell said.

“It is the first time that it has been ruled in favour of an athlete, and shows that it is now recognised sports stars do have image rights and intellectual properties they can protect.”