The Minister for Sport, John O'Donoghue, has welcomed the news that the FAI's Chief Executive Officer and Financial Director vacancies will be open to public competition.
FAI Treasurer John Delaney, who hopes to succeed Fran Rooney as CEO, last night issued a statement revealing a climbdown by his association on the matter.
Following the controversial end to Rooney's 18-month tenure as CEO last month, O'Donoghue had insisted that the posts should be advertised externally, however, the FAI's Board and National Council last week offered Delaney the job on an interim basis.
This prompted a furious response from O'Donoghue, and, with the possibility of the Government withholding funding for the association, Delaney has now chosen to tow the line.
Senior FAI officials are now set to meet Government representatives and members of the Irish Sports Council this week.
One of the details likely to be discussed is the precise make-up of the interview panel for the jobs.
