Referees are always under the microscope and even more so following a number of incidents during this year's championships. Many ask the question as to why anybody would want to be a referee and in this month's edition of Hogan Stand, we put that exact question to one of London's finest match officials.

Throughout Ireland there is a shortage of referees and as one can imagine it is no different in the U.K as a lack of match officials make it awkward to schedule games.

Seven years ago, Limerick native Liam Barry acknowledged the fact that there was a shortage of referees in the English capital and decided that action speak louder than words, so he picked up his whistle and notebook and these days is recognised as one of the top referees in London.

"I knew there was a shortage of referees over here, while I also felt that the standard wasn't great, so I decided to do something about it," said Liam.

"I enjoy the role and find it very interesting. You are faced with a different challenge every day you go out and I'm pleased with the way it has gone over the years."

The Limerick man admits that he would love to be given the opportunity to referee at county level, although he acknowledges that logistically it may not be the easiest task to perform.

"It's something that I would love to do, but realistically I can't see it ever happening. I love refereeing and I feel that I'd be more than capable of officiating at inter county level."

Liam can understand why people would be unwilling to take up refereeing, but he feels once a person uses a bit of common sense then there should be no problems.

"People ask why I would want to be a referee and I feel that I can make a difference. Once you apply the rules accordingly and do the job fairly, there is generally no hassle. Of course, the odd mistake will always be made, its human nature."

Liam admits that it is hard to sympathise with Tyrone referee Martin Sludden following his calamitous mistake that gifted Meath the Leinster title at the expense of Louth, who were seeking their first provincial crown in 50 years.

"It was hard to have any sympathy for him as I cannot comprehend why he didn't consult with his umpires. It was an outrageous mistake to make and the consequences were huge."

Liam has been a member of the Fulham Irish club since it was established in 2006. The club is one of the newest in the U.K and has made huge strides at both underage and senior level since its inception.

The Abbeyfeale native is the current chairman of the club and he admits that the club have a bright future with their location being key to the number of players that they attract from home.

"We would have probably in the region of 90 players registered and have two adult teams, while we also cater for the under-10 and 12s as well as ladies football.

In its first year, the club won the intermediate title, while two years later they won the league and cup double, to give all involved a massive boost.

"The club is still in its infancy, but our aim is to win the senior championship in the not too distant future and we are heading in the right direction."

When asked if he felt whether or not Croke Park was doing enough to promote the games in the U.K he replied "Croke Park are doing their bit in fairness. However, we would like to get our views known on the development of games over here.

"We used to get money for coaching, but now that is put in a fund as the GAA appoint their own coaches, which is something I feel should be reviewed."

Liam travelled to the U.K in 1988 at the age of 16. Having been involved with the famed Fr Casey's club in Limerick during his earlier years, he developed a love for Gaelic football that has never waned.

Since arriving in London, Liam has worked with the Byrne Group, which is owned by well known GAA supporter Patsy Byrne.

The Byrne Group has sponsored the London footballers and Fulham Irish club to name just a couple of the many teams that they have helped out down through the years.

The company was established in 1969 by Patsy and Johnny Byrne and from humble beginnings, it has grown into a major concern with 1500 employees on the books.

Specialising in concrete forming, the Byrne Group has been involved in some of the biggest construction projects in London that include the Olympic Stadium, Millennium dome, Emirates Stadium, Stamford Bridge and they are currently involved in the construction of what will be Europe's tallest building, the Shard of Glass.

"We are very busy at the moment and have been involved in many big projects across the city. Most of our work is situated in the greater London area, added Liam, who is project manager with the company.

"We would have a good few Irish lads employed here. Patsy is a huge GAA fan and in particular of his native Kerry. We have helped out where we can with regards to sponsorship in the GAA." 

Liam is still lining out for the Fulham Irish reserve side and recently scored 0-4 in a championship game showing that he can still play at a decent standard. Tweet

Most Read Stories