Financial warning for counties if Dubs taken out of Croker

October 21, 2015

Dublin's Alan Brogan and Diarmuid Connolly celebrate after their win over Kildare at Croke Park. INPHO

Leinster CEO Michael Reynolds has warned counties that they could take a financial hit if the Dublin senior footballers are sent out on the road in the provincial championship.

Speaking at yesterday's club championship launch in Barretstown Castle, who are their official charity partners, Reynolds confirmed to The Irish Independent that there would be financial repercussions if Jim Gavin and his players were fixed to play outside of GAA headquarters.

"Ultimately it would. Now, not in a once-off game as such, but it comes down to grants (Leinster distributed €9m in 2014).

"Any employment is protected, that's the nature of the business. But if counties want grants there will be less money to go around. That's a balancing act that counties have to make."

He added: "Counties do get serious grants and everybody is realistic about a full house or a decent crowd in Croke Park - 82pc in general of funds generated at national and provincial level finds its way back in club and county."

Reynolds confirmed that the next meeting will consider all proposals.

Meanwhile, on the topic of the GPA's proposals to restructure the football competition, the Leinster chief voiced his opposition to the suggestion that provincial championships be played over four weekends in April and May with the finals over one weekend on May 15 and 15.

Asked could it work, he replied: "A straight answer? No, it's not (feasible).

And hurling has to be considered, for the dual counties as well. Hurling wasn't mentioned in the plan, so where do you fit that in? April, May, June? To be frank about it, I don't see that as being practical.

"There is also U-21 at that time of year. Fair enough, if people want to lose that, it's another day's work. It's just too early.

"I would be pretty sure the counties wouldn't buy into it."


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