Council rules query on experimental hurling rule out of order

A PROPOSAL that the experimental rule changes in hurling be jettisoned immediately was ruled out of order at a Central Council meeting on Saturday.

Kilkenny had forwarded the proposal, claiming that the new rules should not be applied to hurling in the same manner as they affect football. There has been extreme anger at the yellow card rule in hurling, which many commentators claim will ruin the game.

But Kerry delegate Gerald McKenna pointed out that a motion proposing to change the rules applicable in a competition before that competition was completed, had to be ruled out of order. President of the GAA Sean Kelly said that this was also the management committee’s view.

The next debate on the new rule will occur at GAA Congress when it is expected that the rules will not be retained for hurling.

It was agreed that a new standalone players lounge in the dressing room area of Croke Park would be ready for the final stages of the championship. This will replace an existing players’ lounge on level four of the Hogan Stand which has proven unsatisfactory because of location.

It was confirmed that an extra exit from Croke Park at the junction of the Hogan and Canal End stands will have to be provided for forthcoming concerts in the stadium. The provision of this exit will necessitate a temporary reduction in capacity.

It was also confirmed that a new ticketing system in association with Ticketmaster will be introduced for this year’s championships.

In relation to the Report of the Alcohol and Substance Abuse Task Force, it was confirmed that an officer will be appointed to implement the recommendations of the report once matters have been finalised with the Department of Health.

Finally in the context of licences granted for the general sale of drink in Croke Park, it was agreed that strict controls would apply. No alcoholic drink will be sold during games and the sale of drink will cease an hour after games.