FAI release statement on bonus controversy

The FAI have released a statement regarding the controversy surrounding bonus payments to former Irish manager Mick McCarthy.

This follows the report of independent facilitator John O'Donnell.

The FAI statement said:

“Further to recent reports in the media and on its own behalf, the FAI is happy to clarify that at no time, before, during or after the World Cup in Korea/Japan 2002, did Liam Gaskin or Mick McCarthy bring any undue pressure to bear on the Association regarding the payment of a bonus. Indeed the contrary is the position and the FAI was prepared to offer and pay the Bonus to Mr McCarthy.

"The Association acknowledges that the awarding of the Bonus was a collective decision and that John Delaney acted at all times in the best interests of the Association.

"The FAI apologises for any distress or upset which may have been caused to either Mr Gaskin or Mr McCarthy by these media reports. The FAI has no hesitation in confirming that Mr Gaskin and Mr McCarthy at all times acted in a professional and honourable manner in all their dealings with the Association.”

"The FAI wishes to thanks Mr O’Donnell for his work as facilitator to the parties involved and as part of the agreement reached between the parties, no further comments will be made on the issue."