Courts / Limerick / Report

Limerick FC sues FAI over exclusion from league

Date
2020-01-13

Stage
Hearing Or Decision

Primary locality
Limerick

Summary

Limerick FC, represented by Frank Callanan SC, has launched High Court proceedings against the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) regarding its alleged exclusion from the 2020 League of Ireland First Division. The club claims the FAI failed to invite it to submit a licence application, a breach of FAI rules, and alleges the FAI wrongfully allowed Shamrock Rovers' second team to enter the division via the National League Executive Committee rather than the Club Licensing Bodies. Limerick seeks injunctions to permit its licence application, prevent its exclusion, and restrain the FAI from allocating club assets or licensing third parties. The FAI responded that Limerick failed to provide required information before deadlines, denying any refusal to allow an application. In a sworn statement, chairman Pat O'Sullivan alleged FAI demands, including investor meetings and business plans, were illegitimate and breached UEFA rules. He noted the club's failed examinership and stated that no liquidation steps have been taken. On an ex-parte basis, Ms Justice Leonie Reynolds granted permission to serve short notice on the FAI. Noting the urgency, she made the matter returnable to Thursday's sitting. The judge also agreed that Shamrock Rovers FC should be formally made aware of the proceedings. The matter was adjourned.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Limerick FC sues FAI over exclusion from league. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision

When:

2020-01-13 Publication

Why: It claims the decision to allow Shamrock Rovers' second team take part is wrongful because it was taken by the FAI's board and National League Executive Committee and not by the FAI Club Licensing Bodies. CNI source report