Drogheda back in the Premier Division

Drogheda United will compete in the 2011 Airtricity Premier Division after being granted a licence to compete in the top-flight, while Galway United have been demoted to the 'A' Championship.

Drogheda were relegated at the end of the 2010 campaign, but will now take the place of Sporting Fingal, who ceased trading last Thursday.

Galway were refused a Premier Licence by the Independent Club Licensing Committee for failure to fulfil the financial criteria as set down in the Club Licensing manual.

Reports suggest Galway owe former players money for wages and have not reach agreement with all parties over payment.

The Tribesmen have five days to appeal the decision.

Otherwise, Monaghan United will take their place in the Premier Division.

Bohemians have also been handed a Premier Division licence despite concerns over their finances.

Limerick were awarded a conditional First Division licence. The committee requested the club provide security regarding the financial commitments outlined in their budget as presented as part of the Licensing process.

The club must comply with this request by close of business on Thursday next in order to receive a licence.

In addition, four A Championship licenses were also awarded.

Clubs have five working days from the date of the decision notice to lodge an appeal.

Independent Cub Licensing Committee – 2011 Licences:

Premier Licence
Bohemian FC, Bray Wanderers, Cork City, Derry City, Drogheda United, Dundalk, Monaghan United, Shamrock Rovers, Shelbourne , Sligo Rovers, St Patrick's Athletic, UCD, Athlone Town, Longford Town.

First Division Licence
Mervue United, Wexford Youths, Salthill Devon, Waterford United, Finn Harps, Limerick (conditional)

A Championship Licence
Cobh Ramblers, Galway United, Fanad United, FC Carlow, Tralee Dynamos.