MONEY TILTS THE PLAYING FIELD

I GOT a fair reaction to my line that Dublin’s list of official sponsors – more partners than Hugh Hefner – would be happy they hammered Westmeath.

My point isn’t anti-Dublin. It’s that the commercial playing field just isn’t level any more.

It has gone beyond a joke: It’s not what the GAA is about.

What would you think a Dublin average player is worth, between sponsored cars and the various media gigs? Whether it’s ‘sleeping partner’ the Gibson Hotel or the global brand of AIG, they have every angle covered. Meanwhile, other counties are really struggling to stay afloat.

The GAA’s ethos is that everyone should have a chance. It shouldn’t be about a different lifestyle being on offer if you happen to be from Dublin rather than Westmeath.