September 15th 1999 - A group of players announce in Belfast their intention to form the Gaelic Players Association. Although most of the initial recruits are Ulster-based, plans are made to expand the membership in the south. Donal O'Neill is to be the chief administrator. Initial aims are:

1 - To improve through collective mechanisms the welfare of the individual intercounty athlete within the guidelines established by the GAA.

2 - To generate funds sufficient to address the immediate requirement for a more comprehensive insurance scheme for players.

3 - To establish a third-level scholarship scheme that will encourage prominent young players to maintain their involvement with Gaelic games.

4 - To offer commercial entities appropriate opportunities for a relationship with the GPA and to manage those relationships professionally and in the best interest of both parties.

December 1999 - The GPA is formally launched and its network of regional convenors announced at a series of meeting around the country.

March 13th 2000 - In a first public indication of official response, then GAA president Joe McDonagh disputes the right of the GPA or any unofficial body to represent the interests of GAA members.

"We take serious issue with any group which would negotiate a sponsorship (deal) at national level outside of our organisation on behalf of our members as long as they remain members of our organisation."

McDonagh is speaking at the launch of the report of the Amateur Status Committee. It is further stated that "all endorsements and sponsorships by equipment manufacturers must be negotiated at national level."

GAA Director General Liam Mulvihill confirms that a GPA request to meet Croke Park officials had been turned down.

April 8th 2000 - At a meeting in Croke Park, one item on the agenda asks county officials to crack down on GPA activity in their areas.

April 11th 2000 - GPA confirm that a sponsorship deal has been reached with sport manufacturers Umbro. No details are given.

April 15th 2000 - Incoming president Sean McCague is conciliatory in his inaugural address to Congress in Galway: "As regards the GPA, it would seem one of their aspirations is a meeting with the GAA. I can assure you that I have no views set in stone as to whether such a meeting should or should not take place. Indeed I feel that such an articulation of mutual views at some time would serve a meaningful purpose for the association."

Earlier that day, Donal O'Neill is refused admission to Congress when he tries to attend the afternoon debate.

April 19th 2000 - Former Armagh captain Jarlath Burns appointed GAA's Players Committee chairman.

April 21st 2000 - Burns and McCague meet and agree in principle to meet GPA at some stage.

May 17th 2000 - The GPA announce an annual and monthly awards scheme sponsored by the Carphone Warehouse.

August 9th 2000 - Announcement of private endorsement deals for 10 elite intercounty players.