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17/09/2002
IFA to respond to Sports Minister over soccer strategy
The Irish Football Association (IFA) has finally responded to Sport Minister Michael McGimpsey's taskforce report into improving football in Northern Ireland.
The report, which was unveiled last year, included around 150 recommendations in its soccer strategy for the province.
Responding to the report today, the footballing body agreed in principle to many of its proposals including the amalgamation of the IFA and the Irish Football League, which runs Irish League competitions.
Another recommendation, which has also been supported by IFA president Jim Boyce, is that promotion and relegation should be in place from the bottom up in Northern Ireland football.
Michael McGimpsey set up the taskforce in October 2000 to examine the issues facing soccer.
The taskforce has recommended a number of issues including a new common youth development programme, the establishment of a players' football association and the development of a new national stadium.
Mr Boyce confirmed that the proposals would be presented to the Minister shortly.
(MB)
The report, which was unveiled last year, included around 150 recommendations in its soccer strategy for the province.
Responding to the report today, the footballing body agreed in principle to many of its proposals including the amalgamation of the IFA and the Irish Football League, which runs Irish League competitions.
Another recommendation, which has also been supported by IFA president Jim Boyce, is that promotion and relegation should be in place from the bottom up in Northern Ireland football.
Michael McGimpsey set up the taskforce in October 2000 to examine the issues facing soccer.
The taskforce has recommended a number of issues including a new common youth development programme, the establishment of a players' football association and the development of a new national stadium.
Mr Boyce confirmed that the proposals would be presented to the Minister shortly.
(MB)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:It will be cloudy again throughout the day. Mainly dry in the morning, but patchy drizzle in places, becoming more widespread and persistent in the afternoon. Freshening southwesterly winds. Maximum temperature 12 °C.Tonight:Cloudy with a spell of heavy rain pushing south through late evening and the early hours, followed by some clear spells. Minimum temperature 6 °C.
