GAA warns of match cancellations as referee shortage and abuse crisis worsens

County boards across Ireland warn that rising abuse and declining referee numbers risk widespread fixture disruption unless clubs urgently step up

In Tyrone, competitions control committee (CCC) chairman Raymond Monteith echoed fears expressed in Mayo earlier this year that games could be called off due to a lack of referees. Pic: Sam Barnes/Sportsfile

Game postponements because of a shortage of referees are coming sharper into focus as county boards report a widespread lack of match officials.

Following concerns raised about abuse of and a dearth of referees in Wexford, Kilkenny and Limerick earlier this week, other counties are experiencing similar difficulties.