Premier clubs call for further State support

PREMIER Division clubs facing ‘trepidation and fear’ have directly appealed to the State for financial support ahead of the new SSE Airtricity League of Ireland season. The Premier Clubs Alliance, which represents the Premier Division, have written to Minister Catherine Martin seeking further backing and warning the future of league clubs is at stake. In a letter signed by Anthony Delaney, interim chair of the PCA, the clubs acknowledge the State aid which has helped ‘clubs to navigate unprecedented financial difficulties.’ With games set to continue behind closed doors when the season kicks off on March 19, those ‘difficulties’ persist for the clubs, prompting the PCA to apply for a dig out. No sum is mentioned in the letter but it’s estimated between €6million and €8m will be needed to offset the absence of gate receipts and the loss of other commercial revenue. ‘Our clubs, collectively, contribute an enormous amount to Irish society. We make a direct exchequer contribution, predominantly via PRSI and VAT in excess of €2.5m,’ writes Delaney. ‘However, with our league due to restart on March 19, without clear visibility on Government support, we face into the coming weeks with considerable trepidation and fear. ‘Without immediate financial support, the ability to reconvene the 2021 season (the League’s centenary year) is in serious doubt. ‘In the event that the 2021 season cannot be reconvened due to lack of financial support it would directly threaten the future of our clubs.’ Meanwhile, Stockport last night parted company with manager Jim Gannon. The non-league club reached the third round of the FA Cup and are currently fourth in the National League.