GPA recognition moves a step closer

A proposal to proceed with the interim provisions of the GAA's agreement with the Gaelic Players' Association was approved by 39 votes to five earlier today.

A motion on behalf of Central Council to formally recognise the GPA will be discussed at the GAA's Annual Congress in Newcastle, Co Down next April.

Welcoming today's announcement, GAA president Christy Cooney said: "I welcome the endorsement and support of Central Council and look forward to a motion now going before Congress next year.

"As has been the case to date at every level of the Association, today's vote was accompanied by a healthy debate and we will now proceed in the coming weeks and months to implement the interim provisions outlined in the agreement."

Meanwhile, the GAA has also approved the outline provisions for its 2010 budget.

In a statement released today, it said: "Despite the obvious financial challenges ahead, the Association remains in a sound financial position and is committed to doing its utmost to ensure that there are no significant reductions in general allocations to counties from Central Council in 2010.

"Specifically, it is also intended that investment in Games Development will remain consistent with 2009 levels."

Proposals to change the existing playing rules of hurling and football will also be discussed at Congress next April.

The rule change proposals are the result of a review process undertaken by sub-committees set up under the chairmanship of Séamus Woods (football) and Simon Moroney (hurling).

It was agreed to employ the suggested rule changes on an experimental basis for the upcoming Allianz National League campaigns ahead of a discussion at Congress.

The specific details of the proposals will be made public in the coming days.

In addition, from 2011, Championship fixtures will not be held at grounds that fail to meet the minimum standards for safety and general facilities laid down by the National Infrastructure and Safety Committee.

A recent audit of all county grounds by the committee identified the particular issues that need to be addressed on a ground-by-ground basis and counties have been asked to ensure compliance with the recommendations of the committee in the coming months.