DRA’s decision must be final, says frustrated President

Colm O’Connor

And he wants Central Council to issue a directive that DRA decisions are binding on all GAA units.

"If it has the status of the court, you have to accept the findings," Mr Kelly said of the DRA.

"The majority of those onboard are legal people if you are establishing a body, it doesn't make much sense to have those going back and starting all over again."

His comments follow the failed appeal by the Dublin County Board to the Central Appeals Committee against the decision of the Leinster Council on the issue of St Brigid's and Kilmacud Crokes.

The Leinster Council ruled in favour of St Brigid's appeal over the eligibility of Mark Vaughan in playing in the Dublin SFC. The provincial council agreed that St Brigid's had proven that Mark Vaughan was ineligible to play for Kilmacud Crokes against them in the first round of the Dublin SFC, on May 20, because he was suspended.

Meanwhile, Liam Hayes has no plans to take charge of the Meath footballers and vows to complete his two-year term as Carlow boss. Hayes' name was included on the list of official nominees as Meath begin their search for a manager and management team for 2006.

"It's flattering to be nominated but I gave my word to Carlow that I would be with them again next year and I have no intention of going back on it," said Hayes yesterday "I've got a great reaction from the Carlow players, county board and the clubs, which I appreciate, so they can all rest assured I'll be staying. We've started something in Carlow and we'll be working hard to progress it next year."

Donegal ace Brendan Devenney has retired from intercounty football. The 29-year-old St Eunans star will not be available for selection for the county team next season.