John Delaney appointed new CEO of FAI

Following completion of the interview process, John Delaney has been appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Football Association of Ireland (FAI).  The installation of Mr Delaney, who had been acting CEO on an interim basis since 1 December 2004 was not unexpected. John Delaney has been part of the fabric of the FAI for several years and should be suitably aware of the challenges that lie ahead. Mr Delaney's business acumen is acknowledged and his experience, knowledge and passion for sport should provide the platform for him to be truly effective in the CEO position. From the perspective of the ordinary fan and supporter of Irish soccer, the history of the Association is littered with catastrophe and carries much negative baggage resulting in a less than fulsome perception of the organisation. It should be noted that that some of this negativity, as with many other matters in life, has been cultivated and fuelled by certain factions of the media whose motivation is unclear. However, we now start afresh and would like to view the Association with an open mind and look to the future in a more optimistic light. It is time perhaps for us as individuals to stand and think alone, assess and judge matters on the facts and our own dealings with the Association and its' Officers and form our own opinions without the encouragement of third party hearsay and innuendo. There has been a clearly perceptible mood change throughout the corridors of Merrion Square over recent months and it is hoped that the advances made will continue, and culminate in the creation of an organisation which the ordinary supporter is able to respect and indeed feel proud to be associated with. In seeking this ideal, it is recognised that the improved atmosphere alone is but an initial stepping stone on what is still a difficult path towards achieving the requisite levels of efficiency and service. In recent months we have seen a number of agreements entered into and initiatives introduced which give cause for much optimism. The sponsorship and television deals, valued in excess of €20 million, which have been negotiated are indicative of the aims and aspirations that the Association must aspire to. There remains much to be done "The Stadium Project is perhaps the most critical item on the agenda and it would behold the Association, it's partners at the IRFU together with the Government to make the speedy execution of the project an absolute priority and to make every effort to ensure that the prevarication, in areas such as this, which has blighted our history is defeated". The implementation of the Technical Development Plan which was launched last year is also of huge significance to the future of the game in our country and should be addressed with similar application and vigour. We wish John Delaney the very best in guiding the Association through the many challenges facing it and look forward to the fruitful realisation of all the ambitions and targets we all hold for our game and indeed our Nation.