FAI president Donal Conway says Sport Ireland's decision to withhold future funding is "unfortunate".
Sport Ireland announced their decision in a statement on Tuesday afternoon and cited non-compliance with Clause 4.3 of Sport Ireland’s Terms & Conditions of Grant Approval.
They also confirmed that the FAI has received "50% of its 2019 funding to date".
On Monday, Off The Ball had seen correspondence between the FAI and Sport Ireland. That correspondence detailed the latter's dissatisfaction regarding explanations about the €100k "bridging loan".
In a subsequent statement, the FAI president expressed disappointment at Sport Ireland's decision to withhold funding. Conway added that the funding is "crucial" to Irish football's governing body.
But he also expressed confidence that they will "satisfy Sport Ireland" regarding governance and financial issues.
Delegates from the FAI are due to appear before the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Transport, Tourism and Sport on Wednesday. Former FAI CEO John Delaney is among the delegates confirmed to appear.
Statement
"The Board of the Football Association of Ireland notes the decision of Sport Ireland to suspend and withhold the balance of funding due in 2019, as conveyed by letter this afternoon. It is unfortunate that Sport Ireland now feel compelled to take this action in the wake of recent events.
"The €2.7million funding Sport Ireland provides annually to the FAI is crucial to the development of an inclusive approach to football in Ireland. As indicated at its meeting with Sport Ireland last Friday and in recent correspondence, the Association is keen to restore trust and confidence and rebuild the relationship with Sport Ireland as soon as possible.
"The Association has committed to take all appropriate steps in this regard. I am fully confident that through the processes now in place, we will be in a position to satisfy Sport Ireland in relation to both governance and financial issues and ensure that the 50% balance of funding due for 2019 is restored at the appropriate time."
Meanwhile, the FAI's primary sponsors 'Three' issued a statement to Off The Ball.
"Our focus is to promote the game of football for fans and our customers right across the country. As part of this, Three is proud to support the International Men’s team on its journey to Euro 2020 qualification. Three is continuing to liaise with the FAI regarding recent matters."
You can also watch the Irish Independent's Daniel McDonnell discuss the issues on Monday's Football Show.
Download the brand new OffTheBall App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!
Subscribe to OffTheBall's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.
