The GPA has responded to recent criticism of the role it plays in the GAA by publishing detailed answers to 'Frequently Asked Questions' on their website - gaelicplayers.com.

The Players body reveals that the annual donation it received from the GAA in 2014 was €1.875 million and that the funding was provided to operate and administer the Player Development Programme.

The GPA also clarifies its position on the 'Club Fixture Crisis': "While this is strictly a matter for the GAA, the Players Association is, nonetheless, consistently questioned about the matter.

"All GPA members are first and foremost club players, and share the concerns of poorly scheduled club fixture programme. However, it is important to note that clubs do have control of their own destiny.

"Contrary to the misconception that club players are 'voiceless' the truth is that every club and club player in Ireland is represented at county board level. Each county board is responsible for its own club programme.

"If club players raise concerns through their executive and county board delegate, then those concerns should be aired constructively where they can be acted upon - at the county board. It is at this forum that club fixtures are compiled and managed."

As regards why the GPA doesn't represent club players: "No players association in the world represents their playing body at all levels and Gaelic games are no different.

"County players are separately supported through a Development Programme in specific recognition of their commercial importance and significance to the GAA in three main areas - the sale of sponsorship deals, broadcast rights and gate receipts.

"The GAA is unique in the world of sport in that it does not pay its elite tier players.

"However, the GAA, through an agreement with the GPA, provides funding to support these players with their personal development off the field of play.

"The level of funding needed to extend programme support to over 100,000 players, all operating at different levels, would be implausible.

"Relevant issues pertaining at club level such as injury scheme payments are matters for the club committee and county officers.

"All club players have representation through their executive and county board officer and need to engage with those administrators in terms of influencing desired change."

Check out the Gaelic Player Association's FAQ's in full here: http://gaelicplayers.com/WhatsHappening/LatestNews/TabId/86/ArtMID/421/ArticleID/365/Gaelic-Players-Association---Frequently-Asked-Questions.aspx

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