Clubs’ forum explains aims to ‘ensure transparency’

THE Cork GAA Clubs’ Forum yesterday outlined what was discussed at their inaugural meeting in order to ensure transparency for their organisation.

The remit of the forum came in for criticism from chairman Jerry O’Sullivan and board delegates at last Tuesday night’s county board meeting, but the forum PRO John Corcoran has moved to explain the purposes of their organisation which seeks to improve “the dearth in communication between the clubs and the county board”.

Said Corcoran: “The delegates engaged in an open and frank discussion in relation to all aspects of the GAA within the county and proposals were put forward as to how best improve.

“This had previously been adverted to by delegates at various meetings held in early spring, by high-ranking board officers at the club’s information meeting at the Rochestown Park Hotel and later when said officers visited the various divisions some weeks ago.

“It is also interesting to note that newly-installed Uachtarán CLCG Christy Cooney has made better communications one of the major planks of his presidency and has initiated the “Ag Éisteacht” programme to improve matters.

“Delegates have also discussed greater representation for junior clubs at county board level and suggested that all clubs in the county should be consulted about decisions that impact on them such as congress motions, appointment of inter-county team managers etc. Development issues such as establishment of schools of excellence, renovation of Páirc Uí Chaoimh so as to transform it into a modern stadium befitting a county like Cork, and the setting up of a modern website were also discussed by delegates.”

He concluded: “The aim of this forum is to work diligently for the betterment of GAA within the county ensuring we can go forward as a united and powerful unit. This will safeguard Cork’s proud and noble tradition and position as the foremost county under CLG.”

All eight divisions were represented at the forum and a copy of this release is set to be circulated to every club within Cork.