GAA to hold talks with GPA

GAA officials will sit down with their counterparts from the Gaelic Players Association (GPA) in the coming days in a bid to …

GAA officials will sit down with their counterparts from the Gaelic Players Association (GPA) in the coming days in a bid to resolve the ongoing difficulties between the two organisations and avoid any repeat of the recent media blackouts at high-profile matches.

Informal talks have taken place between the two organisations in recent days leading to a joint statement this afternoon in which it was explained that “a formal process of dialogue has been agreed for the weeks ahead”.

The GPA continues to seek official recognition from the GAA and a five per cent share of the organisation's annual income.

Its failure to achieve those joint goals led to players boycotting television interviews before and after the Leinster football and Munster hurling finals.

And while the GPA had threatened to escalate it’s campaign, no further action has been taken and today’s joint communiqué suggests both parties could be nearing a resolution.

“The GAA and the GPA have engaged in informal discussions over recent days,” today’s statement said. “A formal process of dialogue has been agreed for the weeks ahead with the aim of addressing the differences in their respective positions.

“Neither the GAA nor the GPA will be making any further comment.”

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