GPA devise plan to lift Ulster hurling fortunes
The radical idea, mentioned in The Irish Examiner earlier this week, is seen as a means of addressing the game in the province which currently has six of its nine counties competing in the lower Nicky Rackard and Lory Meagher Cups.
The official players body propose the minor and U21 teams compete in the All-Ireland series for a three-year period as a precursor to an Ulster team entering the Liam MacCarthy Cup.
GAA president Liam O’Neill and director general Páraic Duffy will next week meet with six counties they have designated for special assistance (Antrim, Laois, Carlow, Westmeath, Kerry and Down).
It’s the GAA’s hope that with structures put in place one of the sextet will contest an All-Ireland semi-final with 10 years.
One of the suggestions being mentioned is the GAA being given the authority by counties to appoint their management teams.
In light of issues with expenses being paid by county boards this year, the GPA also passed a motion requesting all county boards and county panels agree the players’ charter by January 31 next.
Bearing in mind their Government grants have been cut to the combined total of 73%, the organisation also called on the Fine Gael-Labour coalition to maintain funding at its current level.
In his address to the GPA agm in Dublin’s Gibson Hotel yesterday, chief executive Dessie Farrell said: “One of the core principles of the Players’ Association is ensuring that the contribution county hurlers and footballers make to the social and cultural fabric of Irish society is both recognised and promoted.
“Government Funding for our players, for example, is provided on this basis of this principle. However, it is an aspect which we as an organisation can and will develop further. While our players already make a significant contribution through their dedication to game, their leadership qualities make them ideal and powerful role models within their communities.”
In his speech, Farrell said the GPA’s progress over the last 12 months has been “compelling”.
He pointed to an increase in player services such as education and career development as well as the GPA’s first joint commercial deal with the GAA, the partnership with Price Waterhouse Coopers.
Farrell added: “We have an excellent productive working relationship with the GAA ensuring that players’ views, opinions and issues are represented at the heart of the decision-making process.”
As part of the GAA-GPA Opel All Stars tour in New York next month, the players body are organising a fundraising Ireland-US Heritage awards and dinner gala on November 15.
Cork's Donal Óg Cusack will continue as GPA chairman with Kildare's Ronan Sweeney as secretary. Former Offaly star Brian Whelahan will stay on as president.
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