The Gaelic Players' Association has denounced the Donegal County Board's decision not to renew Danny Harkin's tenure as chairman for another year. Harkin, who last month came out in public support of improved conditions for players, was replaced by 1992 All-Ireland winning manager Brian McEniff following Sunday's convention in the county.
Harkin was defeated by 85 votes to 50 following a vote of no confidence by the executive because of his stance on financial compensation for players. And, in a statement released today, Dessie Farrell, chief executive of the GPA, said: "It is with great sadness that the Carphone Warehouse sponsored GPA has learned of the unsuccessful attempt by Danny Harkin to retain chairmanship of the Donegal Co Board."
He continued: "Whilst we do acknowledge the democratic nature of the GAA we believe that Mr Harkin's failure to retain the chair was as a direct result of his considered and heartfelt plea on behalf of inter-county players. Undoubtedly the Donegal Co Board Executive will refute this allegation and claim that there were other issues at hand, but the fact remains that following his remarks concerning player welfare, his colleagues on the board quickly isolated him and released a statement to disassociate the board from these comments, despite the fact that Mr Harkin had full and unequivocal support of the Donegal Senior football team."
Dublin county star Farrell concluded by thanking Harkin for his support in the ongoing debate between players and Croke Park. He said: "On behalf of the players across the country the GPA would like to take this opportunity to thank Mr Harkin for his enlightened contribution to this ongoing debate. We commend him on his fortitude and vision and encourage other administrators to follow his example. It is a well-known fact that many other administrators privately harbour similar attitudes but are reticent to publicly acknowledge same, in fear of suffering a fate identical to that of Mr Harkin. It is our hope that he will continue to play an active and progressive role within the Association as men of his foresight deserve due recognition."
Filed by Shane Murray
