The GAA has expressed “frustration and extreme disappointment” at the apparent breach of Covid-19 training restrictions by the Dublin senior footballers.
At least nine players from Dessie Farrell’s six-in-a-row winners were pictured by the Irish Independent engaged in a session at the Innisfails GAA Club grounds despite such gatherings not being allowed to resume until April 19.
It occurred less than 12 hours after the GAA had issued a statement appealing to clubs and counties to abide by the training ban before the restart, warning that any breaches could place the return date “in serious jeopardy”.
That message was reiterated by Gaelic Players Association chief executive and former Dublin footballer Paul Flynn in a circular to its membership yesterday.
The latest GAA statement reads: “It is with frustration and extreme disappointment that the GAA acknowledges reports today of a potential breach of both our own Covid guidelines and those of the Government relating to the restrictions in place around team training.
“Less than 48 hours ago, the Association reiterated its commitment to these current guidelines and called for continued compliance in the weeks ahead.
“The GAA will pursue the allegations with the units in quezon at the earliest opportunity and will invoke any necessary disciplinary processes as appropriate.
“In the meantime, while we acknowledge that the overwhelming majority of counties and clubs have complied in an appropriate and responsible way with the restrictions currently in place, we once again call on our members and units to uphold the integrity of the Association as part of our ongoing efforts to play our role in thwarting the virus and ensuring a return to activity when it is safe to do so.”
Down and Cork footballers have already found themselves in hot water this year for training breaches with their managers, Paddy Tally and Ronan McCarthy, hit with eight and 12-week bans respectively, with both counties also set to be stripped of home advantage for an Allianz League game.
