FAI votes in restructuring reforms

The Football Association of Ireland today voted in reforms which they say will change the way football is governed in Ireland.

The reforms, introduced at the FAI’s AGM in Galway, include the reduction in the size of the FAI’s Board from its previous level of 22 to 10.

Also accepted was the introduction of a new committee structure to govern the different aspects of administering the business of football in the country.

"The new structure is more democratic and geared to facilitate dynamic decision-making and to bring fresh talent into the management of the game," said a spokesman.

The proposals arose from the work of the Implementation Steering Group (ISG), established in the wake of the FAI Genesis report.

FAI President, Milo Corcoran who chaired the ISG said: “Many of the report’s recommendations have already been implemented and the reduction in the Board size was a crucial signal of the FAI’s commitment to reform.

“The Association made a commitment to the general public last November that it would change, and I believe we are honouring that pledge.”

Fran Rooney, CEO of the association said it was very important for the FAI to revisit first principles of developing and fostering the game. Central to this was what Mr Rooney described as “a more professional association maximising the potential of our people, our resources and our brand values”.

The FAI’s Honorary Treasurer, John Delaney said the outcome of the year resulted in a surplus of €0.3m (€0.85m; 2001/2). This outcome was significantly boosted by a surplus of €3.3m arising from Ireland’s participation at the World Cup.

More than 30% of total turnover for the year related to the World Cup Finals.

Investment in the senior international team increased in line with the recommendations of the Genesis report. Expenditure in the 95 non-senior international matches, including women's and underage matches, increased by 25%, the FAI said today.