Derry set to emerge from the gloom
Thursday, 12 November 2009 21:55Beleaguered Derry City's prospects of survival appear much brighter this evening after the mayor, leading business figures and fans met with FAI officials on Thursday.
The Candystripes were barred from the league after the FAI indicated that rules governing secondary, unofficial contracts had been breached, but the club have been encouraged to reapply for a licence to play in the First Division.
FAI Chief Executive John Delaney led the delegation to Foyleside and was very positive about Derry's future participation in the League of Ireland.
Delaney said: 'It was an extremely good day for Derry City FC - everybody's on the same pitch here, everybody wants Derry back in the League of Ireland and today was a more than positive day to ensure that happens.
'We have identified a road map to get Derry back into the league next season and that is on course.
'I know it means a lot to the people of Derry to be part of the League of Ireland and it is also important to the FAI to have Derry in our league.
'It is important that Derry City survives, irrespective of which division they are in.
'They will have to start in a lower league - there is no way they can go straight into the Premier League - but if a proper application is made, they could be in the First Division next season.
'I would envisage a new company being set up, which would not be carrying these huge debts, and hopefully that will lead to Derry re-joining the league next season.'
Stephen McCarron became the final member of the Derry City board to resign earlier on Thursday afternoon.
Derry's brave new world will see the club adopt a part-time structure in an attempt to keep cost under control.
