GPA's Farrell to assume Central Council role

GPA (Gaelic Players Association) chief executive Dessie Farrell has been nominated to assume the role of the Players' Representative on the GAA's Central Council.

Farrell, a 1995 All-Ireland and All-star winner with the Dublin footballers, is seen as an ideal replacement for ex-Armagh skipper Jarlath Burns, who stepped down from the position in 2003.

Farrell has worked tirelessly for player rights since the setting up of the GPA, the brainchild of Down native Donal O'Neill, in 1999.

Following GAA President Sean Kelly's confirmation of Farrell's nomination today, a GPA statement read: "This historical, player-driven development clearly reinforces the GPA's status as the most viable vehicle for player representation on Gaelic games.

"Whilst the GPA will remain autonomous the association is committed to utilising this appointment to progress the player issue on formalised basis."