Brennan and Farrell welcome grant decision
The announcement that €3.5m will be provided to fund an annual team performance scheme and an annual support scheme for the country's 1,800 inter-county players has been welcomed by both GAA president Nickey Brennan and Gaelic Players Association chief executive Dessie Farrell.
The deal, which follows extensive negotiations between the GAA, the GPA and the Government, means the pledged strike by the players in the new year has almost certainly been averted.
Reacting to the news, GAA president Nickey Brennan said: "I am pleased that the issue of recognition for GAA players has been addressed."
"The Association's core concerns had been addressed - the protection of the amateur status, the payment of funds from the exchequer clearly defined as sports awards and the commitment that GAA funding generally would not be negatively impacted on in any way."
He also said that the proposal will however require the ratification and approval of Central Council and it will be placed on the agenda for its December meeting.
Meanwhile, former Dublin footballer Farrell said: "This is an important day for players and the GAA.
"Since our inception, the GPA has brought the welfare of players to the top of the priority list and underpinning our drive to improve welfare has been the campaign for state funding, which we believe enhances a player's position while protecting the amateur status.
"I'd like to thank everyone who supported the GPA, in particular the players who showed great solidarity. I'd also like to thank Minister Seamus Brennan, the Government, department officials, various politicians and the Irish Sports Council for their commitment to this scheme.
"We also wish to acknowledge the efforts made by the GAA and, particularly, president Nickey Brennan to improve player welfare in recent years and we now look forward to developing a strong and productive relationship with our governing body."
