Wexford GAA will 'vigorously oppose' the new hurling league proposals.

Under the headline 'Wexford to vigorously oppose proposed NHL changes', an article on the County Board's website (wexfordgaa.ie) reads: 'This evening saw the publication on GAA.ie of new proposals to restructure the National Hurling League and it's fair to say the reaction across the county has been a strong one.

'These proposals would see Limerick elevated to Division 1A and Cork avoiding the drop to 1B, increasing 1A to 8 teams and reducing 1B 6 teams. This proposal will go to Central Council for consideration and a vote on the 12th of October.

'Our Twitter account, @OfficialWexGAA has been inundated with supporters and past players expressing their anger and opposition to the proposals. There is a sense of grievance that these changes are being made to suit particular counties at the expense of Wexford.

'Wexford County Chairman, Diarmuid Deveraux has vowed to oppose this proposal, taking the fight to the highest levels and calling on the support of our friends and supporters to do so.

'The impact on Wexford would be hugely detrimental; we are looking forward to hopefully hosting Cork, Offaly and Limerick in 2014, now this would be snatched away should these proposals be accepted.

'There are of course financial impacts for Wexford, the 2013 hurling league income was the lowest ever, with only 2 home games. This has real consequences, damaging our ability to prepare, to fund development and compete, something Wexford GAA can't and won't ignore.

'The fact is that our young senior hurling team need more games at a higher level not fewer games.

'In addition this proposal would mean less opportunity for our supporters to see big names in action in Wexford Park, reducing the excitement and profile of the game in the county at a time when we are working hard to turn rejuvenate the game.

'The proposal smacks of an arbitrary decision, a reactionary move motivated by the prominence of Limerick and Cork in the latter stages of the championship.

'Wexford GAA will be mounting a vigorous campaign to oppose the proposal and need all our clubs, supporters and officials to support us in this. Now we need to work together, to focus and use our anger, for it to drive us on. Let's bounce back and demand the respect we deserve.' Tweet

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