Fogarty’s priority is underage development

THE development of GAA in schools and at under age level is the ambitious priority of Sean Fogarty, the new chairman of the Munster Council.

“These are the first assembly points for our young people, the areas where they are taught the basic skills, the basic code of discipline and indeed the level or respect for fellow players, officials and referees alike.

“If we get it wrong at this level, it is doubtful if it can ever be put right,’’ he warns.

Regretting the failure of the players’ voluntary insurance scheme, Mr Fogarty expressed concern that the increase of team insurance to €650 could have serious consequences.

“It may lead to clubs deciding to concentrate on a stronger code. This would be disastrous for the game of hurling in particular, as it has a much smaller base than Gaelic football, thus compounding what is already a serious problem.’’

Fogarty has a novel idea to promote hurling which would involve nine strong hurling counties each adopting a weaker county and developing links, and talent in the process. He also believes that hurling should qualify for special funding from both the Government and the EU.

“It is unique to Ireland. It is generally regarded as the fastest and most skilful field sport in the world and was recently described very aptly as a national treasure by Sean Kelly. If any other country had such a gem in its collection, its preservation and enhancement would be a national priority.’’

He hopes to create Munster Allstars in football and hurling and that other provinces would do likewise. He also vowed that the Council needs to be more proactive in its marketing of the championships.

“I will be asking our PR committee to devise publicity methods to increase attendances at the earlier rounds of our championships. As an organisation we do absolutely nothing to market our games,’’ he added.

Retiring secretary Donie Nealon criticised Wexford football manager Pat Roe who claimed that hurling was in decline commenting: “We are proud of the status of hurling and of the way it is being promoted, from under-age right up to senior in every county, and I include Kerry. There are no fears for hurling in Munster.’’