Carlow TD Jennifer Murnane O’Connor speaks out against Calendar Soccer decision

Following on from Peter Chap Cleere’s statement against Calendar Soccer yesterday, fellow Fianna Fail TD and Junior Minister, Jennifer Murnane O’Connor has spoken out against the FAI’s decision to implement Calendar Football across the county. The Carlow native has criticised the ‘one size fits all approach’.

Following a meeting of local leagues at the Woodford Dolmen Hotel this week, Murnane O’Connor released a statement saying that this decision will have devastating consequences for children in the area.

Following meetings with various clubs throughout the County, the Minister has expressed her concern, shared by others, that the FAI is proceeding with ‘a one size fits all approach’ by introducing changes to the sporting calendar which may adversely impact on children and clubs in the county.

The Minister stated: “It is quite clear that changing from school term soccer to calendar year may adversely affect children and clubs. This change has been tried in some counties with concerning consequences, including the loss of club members.” 

The Minister went on to say: “The decision may result in children being unable to choose to participate in both GAA and Soccer which many of them currently enjoy and which promotes their health and well-being and ability to interact socially with others.” 

 “As a Minister with responsibility for the promotion of health, I am acutely aware of the positive impact sports can have on the health of children and adults and I am concerned of the damage restricting choices may cause.” 

The Minister believes that “the serious implications this proposal will have on our children and sporting communities needs to be addressed and resolved. Freedom of choice needs to be given to these clubs and to these children.” she said.

In conclusion, the Minister stated she has discussed this issue with Minister Charlie McConalogue to express her dismay at the turn of events.