FAI set to fund grassroots football leagues for Kennedy and Gaynor Cup – but with twist SFAI label ‘very disappointing'
The SFAI complained last month that the Association had withheld funds which it uses to host the showpiece tournaments for girls and boys in Limerick in June.
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FAI Grassroots Director Ger McDermott clapped back at SFAI criticism
Credit: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile
It was linked to the affiliate's opposition to a change to calendar-year football, the first stage of which, up to under-12 level, is due to be introduced in 2026.
In response, FAI Grassroots Director Ger McDermott insisted grants were always contingent on implementing strategy, with the changed calendar endorsed by a vote last December.
He said: 'Our strategy has changed but why and how we pay out money hasn't changed.'
Entry fees for the tournaments for the competing representative sides have increased but the FAI is making funds available to participants.
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In an email sent out late on Monday night seen by SunSport, SFAI chairman Padraic Clarke wrote: 'Last Friday (via a late email), the FAI confirmed that the SFAI's application for funding has not been approved for payment.
'Instead, the FAI SLT (Senior Leadership Team) proposed that the budgeted amount be made available to participating leagues through their grant application process. This recommendation has been approved by the FAI Board.
'We understand the FAI intends to reach out to leagues to explain this process. However, given that the SFAI application was rejected due to our inability to immediately commit to the FFP (Football Pathways Plan) aligned season model, we expect similar terms and conditions will apply to leagues seeking funding through this new route.
'It is deeply disappointing that the FAI Board has endorsed this initiative and continues to link funding to the implementation of a mandatory calendar season framework. This approach is disconnected from the needs of current U14 players and squads - but it is the position we find ourselves in.'
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The FAI itself can point to how there are strings attached to its own funding, by way of a Memorandum of Understanding in order to access state aid.
And a spokesperson said: 'The application process for affiliates to receive grant funding from the Football Association of Ireland is aligned with the Association's strategy. The Association will invite leagues to join a webinar this week to explain this process in full.'
Heimir Hallgrímsson & John O'Shea spread some Christmas cheer at CHI Crumlin
In his e-mail, Clark attempted to provide background to why the SFAI had not agreed to the conditions upon which funding rested.
He wrote: 'I want to clarify a point that has been mischaracterised: we did not 'ignore' the FAI, nor did I fail to engage at any stage.
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'We were placed in an extremely difficult position - navigating tight deadlines, contract obligations with service providers, and intense pressure from multiple directions, including teams and parents (which we understand - but was another factor).
'After handling a barrage of other urgent tasks, I confirmed that the SFAI was unable to sign up to the proposed terms at this time. This was not a matter of unwillingness, but of prioritisation.'
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