Ahead of the Round 2 fixtures in the Fairyhouse Steel Senior Football Championship, Meade Farm Intermediate Football Championship. Balreask Bar, Restaurant & Guest Accomodation Junior Football Championship, Coolrite Junior B Football Championship and Divisions 1 & 2 of the Meath Cleaning Supplies Premier Football Championship, Ciarán Flynn, Meath GAA Secretary has issued a message on the all-ticket policy that applies for the Championships.
A chairde,
I am writing to address an important issue that has come to our attention regarding the enforcement of the ticket-only policy at our club championship matches.
It has been observed that some venues are not strictly adhering to this policy, with reports indicating that up to half of the gate receipts are being collected in cash, contrary to our established guidelines.
As you are aware, our club championships represent the most significant and reliable source of income for Meath GAA. This revenue is crucial for the ongoing support and development of our clubs and county activities.
All gate receipts are allocated as follows:
– 50% to the general fund for the upkeep of Meath GAA.
– 35% to the development fund to maintain our facilities for club/county teams.
– 15% to the host clubs.
Additionally, our ticket provider, Universe, takes a 9% fee from all gate receipts. Therefore, it is essential that we maximise our efficiency in collecting these funds through digital means to ensure the financial health of Meath GAA.
The practice of accepting cash at the gates – outside of the exceptions for elderly or infirm supporters – undermines our financial stability and could lead to significant discrepancies in our income.
To address this, we must reinforce the ticket-only policy across all gates. Cash should only be accepted as a last resort, specifically for those who may not have access to digital payment methods.
To further facilitate this, we are introducing a cashless option where supporters can tap their debit or credit cards at Páirc Tailteann, making it even easier to comply with the ticket-only policy.
We also need to stress that these measures and decisions were made by the county committee. This is a collective effort to ensure the ongoing success and sustainability of Meath GAA.
I urge all clubs to recommit to enforcing this policy and to communicate its importance to your members and supporters.
Additionally, we will be using our social media channels to remind the public of this policy to ensure that everyone is aware before attending our matches.
Your cooperation in this matter is vital to ensuring the continued success and financial health of Meath GAA.
Thank you for your attention and ongoing dedication to our association.
Is mise le meas,
Ciarán Ó Floinn
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Riarthóir Cluichí
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