Over 500 underage soccer matches in the Dublin region won't go ahead this weekend, due to 'constant abuse' of referees.
Match officials say they've been subjected to threatening behaviour from managers, players and supporters recently.
They're withdrawing their services - and the FAI says any abuse directed at refs won't be tolerated.
Fine Gael's spokesman for sport - former Mayo footballer Alan Dillon - says the problem isn't confined to soccer.
"With all sports there is a certain level of lack of respect from some parents and guardians."
"You'd see that in GAA and in supporters in rugby."
He said the issue needs to be tackled urgently "if we want these young people to be our future role models."
The former footballer said underage games should be about fun and fair play.
The decision by the referees will impact 13,000 children this weekend.
The full statement from the North Dublin Schooolboys/girls League is available here.
