THE GAA SAYS its policy on the use of changing facilities is “likely to be reviewed” after the next Government announcement regarding Covid-19 restrictions on 22 October.
At the moment, dressing rooms can only hold a maximum of six occupants at a time before and after matches. Team talks are to be held outdoors.
There is growing frustration among members of the association that these guidelines are not practical, particularly in light of the poor weather conditions. One particular image shared by GAA Hour host and Portlaoise clubman Colm Parkinson before their Laois SFC knock-out tie against St Joseph’s highlighted the issue and triggered a huge response online.
However, the GAA has told The42 that there are no plans to review this arrangement until the Government announcement later this month.
“This is likely to be reviewed after the next announcement relating to the Covid restrictions,” reads a statement from the association.
“Our primary consideration with this issue has been the safety and well-being of our players, their families and the wider community.”
Portlaoise togging out under a gutter in the lashing rain for a championship knockout game at 7pm. Stand being used by teams in 5pm game.
— Colm Parkinson (@Woolberto) October 3, 2021
Madness pic.twitter.com/XQTvWpCuxl
Speaking to The42 yesterday, Portlaoise chairman Eamon Fennelly said that the dressing room situation is “ridiculous at this stage.”
“I think somebody needs to challenge back on it. I think the mentality now is nearly to just get on with it. Anybody who is vulnerable is vaccinated at this stage so I think that’s the attitude.”
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Even when on the bench he didn’t get game time. The coach doesn’t like or trust him. Saturday once again showed just how wrong O’connor has been all season
O’Connor is just all wrong for Leinster.
He has a very big chance next season with Leinster during the World Cup, midfield won’t be as competitive so he should get a good run of matches.
Mark if Darcy doesn’t make the World Cup squad, he’ll play 12 with t’eo at 13. Then Madigan and sexton will be back so the midfield won’t be as easy to get into as you may think
That pop pass from O’Brien
Battle between him and Madigan for the 12 jersey next season.
It’s always to easy to see who coaches ‘just like/don’t like’. When Gopperth played badly it was ignored whereas when Madigan played mediocre or even if Reid played well decisions went against them.
It creates such a poisonous culture as some players start to feel entitled to spots and others feel it doesn’t matter how well they play they won’t get picked. Cody and Fergusson were masters at disregarding players identities and judging on match performance alone. MOC is such a stink manager.