Nearly a quarter of players surveyed by the Gaelic Players Association (GPA) this week do not want the inter-county season to go ahead.
The GPA polled its membership ahead the resumption of the Allianz Leagues, and with the country seemingly close to Level-5 coronavirus restrictions.
The GPA's National Executive Committee (NEC) has called for the following:
- Stronger testing protocols
- Stricter compliance and oversight of Covid-19 protocols in all counties
- The use of the safest venue for games (location and facilities)
In total, 1,695 players responded to the GPA's survey. That represents 76 per cent of their membership.
Of those, 52 per cent want to proceed with the season.
24 per cent want to play, but only if the implementation of the COVID-19 protocols is improved.
And 24 per cent of those responding do not want the season to go ahead.
A total of twenty Allianz Football League matches are to be played across the coming weekend.
GPA CEO Paul Flynn said, "We are deeply concerned about our member's welfare given the ongoing developments nationwide.
"The clear message from our members is we need to strengthen the protocols to protect the welfare of the players, their families and their communities.
“We also need to respect the decision of players who opt out of the 2020 season."
NEC chair Tom Parsons added, "The NEC has taken our members views on board when making our decision today. This is not a full stop on the matter however.
"The NEC will continue to monitor developments with a close eye on compliance with Covid-19 protocols. We will not hesitate to take further action as we have been mandated to do if required.”
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