‘Deeply shocked’ – FAI apologises to players

The FAI has apologised to a number of former footballers and trainees who took part in Ireland’s first state-funded all-girls football course.

The case follows allegations that FAI coaches made unwanted or inappropriate sexual advances towards women in the 1990s.

The allegations were brought to light following a joint investigation by RTÉ investigates and the Independent Sundaydetailed in the documentary “Girls in Green” on Sunday night.

“Deeply shocked”

Speaking this morning, FAI acting CEO David Courell said the association was “deeply shocked” by the revelations.

“I’m angry to hear that these women could have had these experiences in football,” he said.

“The FAI Board and Management are deeply shocked and dismayed by these revelations.

“I can assure you that providing a safe environment for everyone involved in Irish football is our paramount concern.

“(A)ll the women affected by this situation, we hear you, we are sorry for what you have had to endure.”

David Courell, FAI chief operating officer. Image: PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo

In the meantime, the FAI said it had already taken several measures, including providing support to affected women.

The charity’s director of people and culture, Aoife Rafferty, says any woman who has had a similar experience will now be able to speak about it appropriately.

“We put in place the framework of support that is available to them now, but we realised at that point that actually there are other people who might need that support,” she said.

“We have therefore set up an independent concern reporting helpline to ensure that anyone who has witnessed or experienced something similar has the opportunity to report it appropriately.”

ISP Process

Sports Minister Catherine Martin praised the courage of the women who spoke out and said all athletes should be assured they were protected.

“What we have put in place are modern safeguards and I think the FAI has the appropriate processes in place and I am confident of that,” she said.

“There are legal procedures in place now so I have to be careful how I comment so it’s not inappropriate, but I welcome what the FAI said in their press conference today.”

Gardaí have launched an investigation into a former head coach linked to the allegations, while a separate complaint has also been made against a second head coach.

Both have denied any wrongdoing.

Main image: Close-up of the Republic of Ireland’s 2002 FIFA World Cup home jersey. Image: Alan Smith / Alamy Stock Photo