merrion street

In response to the events at the reconvened FAI AGM today I wish to state that the government does not see either liquidation or examinership as a viable option for the Association or for Irish Football. Over the Christmas period Minister Brendan Griffin and I have been moving with other stakeholders to find a solution to the crisis that includes an acceleration in the pace of reform, the future of government funding, above all, a more secure outlook for FAI staff and certainty that grassroots football does not suffer. 

A radical change in the FAI culture is essential to underpin other reforms. The long-awaited appointment of an independent chair and three other independent directors, expected in the very near future, should provide the necessary impetus for a new confidence in the  reform  process. 

In early January Minister Griffin and I expect to meet UEFA , representatives  of all League of Ireland clubs, spokespeople for the trades unions, directors of the FAI  and other stakeholders in pursuit of a solution that avoids liquidation or examinership but secures the future of Irish football.