TEST US TOO SAYS SINEAD
DUBLIN skipper Sinead Aherne wants equality for women footballers and camogie players over Covid- 19 testing.
Following talks between the GAA and GPA, a baseline screening of all men’s county panels with a rapid result Covid- 19 test is to be introduced next week.
The GAA is in the process of sourcing a testing system and service provider. The GPA believes it will be a saliva test and positive cases identified will then be referred for a PCR test as used by other sports such as rugby.
“The aim will be to make this available to all squads at the earliest convenience,” GPA chief Paul Flynn told members.
However, All- Ireland winner Aherne ( above) has expressed concern about the possibility of the LGFA and the Camogie Association not rolling out a similar system.
“I’d struggle to see how
you could have a situation that that would take place in, if you’re purely looking at health grounds,” Aherne said.
“I’d have a concern around the costings. As far as I know, the rapid testing costs around €5,000 per squad to roll out.
“We also don’t think we’re in a position where all women’s teams competing have a team doctor, which I think is a drawback as well in terms of managing this whole situation.
“For that cost to fall fully on a team or a county board is potentially difficult.
“If it is a case that testing is to be rolled out in a more widespread manner then I hope that additional funding is made available so that ladies football and camogie are fully brought in underneath that.
“By and large players are probably not 100% comfortable because I don’t think you can be.”
On Thursday, Offaly gave Kildare a walkover in the Christy Ring Cup.
In the same competition, the Sligo hurlers yesterday forfeited their fixture with Derry.
The latter situation arose as a member of the Sligo team recorded a positive Covid test days after beating Leitrim to clinch promotion from Division 3B.
Waterford’s footballers had pulled out of their Division 4 trip to Antrim but the game is back on after the Saffrons offered to move the game to Dundalk instead.
Of the Covid-19 testing system, Flynn added:
“In the meantime, the existing rapid testing system provided by the GAA will be used for any squads with concerns, cases or close contacts.”
The GPA has also set up a 24/7 reporting line for players to report non-compliance.