Fergus O'Dowd TD, Chair of the Oireachtas Committee on Transport, Tourism and Sport, has sharply criticised the FAI for their non-attendance at tomorrow's Emergency meeting in Dublin.
The FAI were invited to discuss their accounts in the wake of last Friday's press conference, but sent a letter to the Committee today to state they would be unable to attend, as key board members are engaged in refinancing meetings on Wednesday.
The Association have liabilities in excess of €55 million, and while the Committee can't compel the Association to appear, O'Dowd says it's a very disappointing development:
"They're not getting it all, no, I don't think they are. I made it clear yesterday in the media that there would be no questions allowed in relation to any matter that might be sent to the Gardai, in particular the KOSI Report and that we would be looking at the changes and the future of the organisation. Clearly they have backed out. I don't know what they are afraid of, but accountability is something they have to face anyway. I think the public will judge them for this action. I think they won't be very happy with it."
When asked if the Government should bail out the FAI, Mr O'Dowd said he would be raising the issue with Minister Shane Ross:
"I think UEFA have to step up to the mark, because they are already paying some of the going accounts of the organisation. I personally would like to see all the board changing right now. I wouldn't like the company to go into liquidation with the loss of their jobs and their assets that they have travelling to other entities and maybe travelling to private entities that will charge huge rents for them. On balance I would like to see the organisation re-branded and refocused, but I would like the assets to remain with the clubs."
The FAI in a statement today assured their willingness to attend the Oireachtas Committee when their appropriate representatives are available.
