Murphy stresses referees' role

GAELIC GAMES:ULSTER COUNCIL secretary Danny Murphy has warned against the introduction of so-called goal line technology and spoken instead of the need for increasing respect for match officials.

In his annual report, which will be presented to Saturday’s annual convention in Armagh, Murphy suggests goal line technology such as the Hawk-Eye brand will only ever have limited application, and the GAA needs to focus instead on the consistent and proper application of playing rules.

“The past year has been a difficult one for referees with reviews, changes in policies in respect of grading and appointments,” says Murphy. “We are even examining the use of electronic technology to determine scores or no scores, as the case may be.

“In the midst of the prospect of changes we need to focus on the referees and their pivotal role within our overall games programme and for most the status of the referee needs to be recognised as central.

“We cannot have Hawkeye at every game or a panel of “experts” to analyse the pros and cons of every decision.

“Therefore, we must work to create a climate of proper application of the rules and these do require umpires, linesmen, players and team managements to know the rules and to respect the bona fides of everyone involved in the control of our games.”

Murphy also warns of the difficulties in maintaining financial obligations in the current economic climate, reflecting the similar fears expressed by Leinster Council secretary Michael Delaney in his annual report, published on Monday.

The total 2010 income of the Ulster Council amounted to €5,737,338, inclusive of all grants. Gate income of €1,524,232 represented 27 per cent of this compared to 29 per cent of the total income in 2009. 2010 grant income of €1,265,118 represents 22 per cent of the total, in comparison to 23 per cent in 2009.

Expenditure amounted to €5,463,504. In addition, the investment in grounds and infrastructure amounted €329,224, meaning there was an operating loss on the years working equating to €55,390, which was met from accumulated funds.

“There is little doubt that we are working through a very difficult economic time,” says Murphy, “and this has led to pressure on the capacity of our council to deliver the various programmes and support mechanisms to our counties and through them to our clubs and communities.

“However, against the most challenging of conditions we substantially met all of our requirements and we are looking forward to maintaining our efforts in 2011.

“The council has seen a significant reduction in disposable monies deriving from the gate income. The overall investment in games, coaching and other areas of responsibility have been maintained from external sources despite the challenging environment that are prevalent and are likely to remain so for the foreseeable future.”

On other matters, Murphy expresses his “great disappointment that the inter-provincial championships in both football and hurling did not take place in 2010” – adding he hoped “they can return to a regular slot in the GAA calendar in the near future”.

Murphy also welcomed the recent agreement between the GAA and the Gaelic Players Association (GPA): “We recognise the tremendous commitment of our players as they are our most essential assets and they are deserving of our respect and support.

“We can all improve the relationships by having the administration structures in place as well as having the necessary players and management charters in place that ensure respect of and adherence to the amateur and voluntary ethos of our association.”