Cork hurlers looking for clarification before talks

A leading member of the legal profession is believed to be the independent chairman appointed by the Cork County Board to head up a seven-man team tasked with finding a resolution to the Cork hurling dispute.

However, the Cork players are awaiting clarification on a number of issues concerning the process before committing to talks.

This morning a players’ spokesman explained: “We want to talk but we are seeking clarification on a number of issues before proceeding.”

The board, at their convention this month, voted overwhelmingly to initiate a motion that an independent figure be appointed by new Cork GAA president Derry Gowen to negotiate with players, management and the board in an effort to resolve the dispute that has ripped the association asunder in the county.

“John Gardiner was in contact with Derry Gowen a number of times yesterday and we are confused about some points regarding the process,” said the players’ spokesman.

“However, when John sought details, it appeared these had to be run past a third party.”

He also said the players were only given one hour to contact the 2008 panel before a statement was released by Mr Gowen yesterday evening.

The board and Gerald are willing to enter the process at a moment’s notice, and it is likely the players will also commit to meeting the conflicting parties, once they are satisfied it will be a fair and impartial process.

The independent chairman, appointed by Mr Gowen is thought to have no active participation in the GAA but has agreed to take on the responsibility on the basis that his role will be confidential.

Mr Gowen: said “I urge all involved to co-operate fully with the chairman whose responsibility will be to convene a meeting of all concerned.’’

At the convention recently, the outgoing chairman Mick Dolan said while everybody is anxious to find a solution it would not be at the cost of Gerald McCarthy’s position, as he was democratically appointed.

Meanwhile, the footballers will wait and see before deciding whether to take further action in support of the hurlers. They are boycotting a Munster medals presentation, which was organised for next Tuesday.

An experimental side will line up on Sunday week against CIT in the McGrath Cup.

Article courtesy of The Evening Echo.