One IAAF licence for whole of Ireland still a possibility

THERE could yet be an IAAF licence for the whole island of Ireland, despite the refusal by the Executive of the Athletics Association of Ireland to allow the issue on to the agenda for the last Annual Congress, where it would have met with overwhelming support from the grassroots membership.

Irish athletics is in crisis and the Chief Executive of the Irish Sports Council, John Treacy left the AAI in no doubt about his displeasure when they met last week to discuss a draft of the long overdue strategic plan.

He sent them away with plenty of food for thought and now the Sports Council have organised what would appear to be a crisis meeting to be chaired by Morgan Buckley in Dungarvan tomorrow, the day before the national inter-counties championships.

It is understood that they could avail of the opportunity to revisit the IAAF licence which remains a real issue. The group, calling themselves The Friends of Irish Athletics, however, refused to give up on the licence issue after it was thrown out by AAI.

Ironically, if taken up by a reluctant AAI, it could become a lifeline for the sport, which appears to be badly in need of reorganisation at national level.

The group, which includes former President of the NACAI, John Hassett, and Laurence Larkin, who was involved in the “unity talks” back in the 80’s, came together in the lead up to the formation of the AAI.

Their objective has been one licence for the island of Ireland rather that one association for the island, although now it would appear that the latter could also become a reality following a meeting with representatives the Northern Ireland Federation.

It is understood that the meeting involved members of the Friends of Irish Athletics, the President of the NIAF, David McKibbin, and the Secretary John Allen.

When contacted, Laurence Larkin, who has acted as spokesman for the group in the past, refused to comment on the progress to date other than to confirm that the meeting had taken place in Armagh.

It is understood, however, that the issue has been taken to the highest level.

They have met with a representative of the North-South Ministerial Council and the issue has been raised or will be raised with the Joint Inter-Parliamentary Body. The Taoiseach’s Office has also been kept up to date on developments.