GAA seeking suggestions on Championship changes

By John Fogarty

GAA director general Páraic Duffy has asked clubs and GAA members for proposals on the future structure of the All-Ireland senior football and hurling championships as well as the National Hurling League.

The units have until July 6 to submit their recommendations.

Sent out this week, Duffy's email reads: "A Chara, At the meeting of Central Council on 23 Bealtaine, there was a general discussion on the structure of the All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship and National Hurling League from 2017 and beyond, and on the current structure of the All-Ireland Senior Football championship.

"It was agreed that delegates would discuss the format of each of the three competitions with their counties in advance of the next Central Council meeting on 18 Iúil.

"Rule 6.27 of the Official Guide sets out the organisation of the All Ireland Senior Hurling Championship until 2016. Central Council previously decided that it would review the structure of the National Hurling League and All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship at the same time which means that the structure of both league and championship from the beginning of 2017 are under consideration.

"The structure of the All-Ireland Senior Hurling championship will require a motion to Congress 2016. In the case of the National Hurling League, it is important that counties know the structure of the 2017 National League before the 2016 competition begins.

"In accordance with Rule 6.38 of the Official Guide, all matters relating to the competition shall be decided by Central Council on the advice of the Central Competitions Control Committee (CCCC). The advice of CCCC, which is currently being sought, will be made available to Central Council and to counties prior to the meeting of 18 Iúil.

"I will appreciate, therefore, if any proposals your county wishes to make in relation to the structure of the National Hurling League and All- Ireland Senior Hurling Championship Championship can be forwarded to my office through [e-mail] by Monday 6 Iúil so that they can be circulated and considered by Central Council at its meeting on 18 Iúil.

"There is no requirement in rule to review the structure of the All Ireland Senior Football championship but concerns were expressed at last meeting of Central Council as to whether the present structure best meets the needs of less successful counties.

"In that context, your county is asked to table any proposals for a change in the current structure through [e-mail] by Monday 6 Iúil so that they can be circulated and considered by Central Council at its meeting on 18 Iúil."