NIFL highlight ‘opportunity now to finally progress’ sub-regional stadia funding

NIFL chief executive Gerard Lawlor delivered the message in a meeting described as ‘hugely productive’.

Lawlor was joined by NIFL chairman Colin Kennedy and chief operating officer Steven Mills for the ‘detailed update on the journey of NIFL’s progress in recent weeks with political representatives in relation to funding’.

The meeting, hosted at the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park to club representatives and via an online website, proved, as Lawlor described, ‘important for us as an organisation to communicate the latest information’.

“The meeting tonight was important for us as an organisation to communicate the latest information with our member clubs,” said Lawlor in the NIFL statement. “Following our meeting with the Minister of the Department for Communities, we have the opportunity now to finally progress the flagship project of sub regional stadia funding for the benefit of NIFL clubs and support the essential work they do within their respective communities.

“We are working to provide the opportunity for this vital support to all our 43 member clubs.

“The next steps are now for NIFL are to understand the needs and necessities of our members and we will do that by going out and meeting with all of our clubs.”

q Loughgall have been hit with a five-point forfeit for Championship fixtures involving Callum Ferris during the latest player eligibility ruling by NIFL.

The ruling marks a significant blow to the Lakeview Park club’s bid for promotion.

“The NI Football League can confirm that a ruling has been made on a player eligibility case in the NIFL Championship,” stated NIFL. “The ruling related to the eligibility of Loughgall player Callum Ferris.

“The case was considered by a NIFL Commission and has