FAI apologises after sexual harassment allegations

The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) has apologised to women players who allege they were sexually harassed and coerced.

The allegations, made against two coaches, were revealed in a joint investigation by the Sunday Independent and RTÉ on Sunday.

A number of women told the outlets they felt pressured and coerced by two named coaches while playing football in the 1990s.

Both men deny the allegations.

A media briefing was held on Monday, where FAI Interim CEO David Courell and People & Culture Director Aoife Rafferty apologised to the former players.

“We are sorry for what you had to endure, we're sorry that anyone could have ever felt unsafe,” Interim CEO David Courell said.

“We are sorry that the modern practises and reporting structures that we now have in place were not there for you when you needed them. And we're sorry that anyone could have ever felt unsafe in Irish football.”

“I'm truly sorry that anyone involved in Irish football would ever feel unsafe,” Aoife Rafferty said.

The women met with the FAI when they came forward in February this year.

A statement from the FAI was released on Monday, which stated:

“The association is appalled that women involved in Irish football had experienced serious historical abuse and manipulative behaviour.

“The association is treating these allegations with the utmost priority and seriousness.

"Having been afforded the opportunity to meet the women, the association acknowledges their tremendous courage in coming forward to report their experiences. They have reopened very dark periods of their lives in order to ensure that these matters are finally addressed and never happen to anyone else.”

The association say they believe “unequivocally” that everyone involved in Irish football should at all times feel that they are in a safe environment and that the appropriate processes and practices are in place.

Having met with the women earlier this year, the association say they have taken immediate and appropriate action, including:

• Professional support was made available and continues to be provided to the women affected by these historical events
• A report was made to the Child And Family Agency, TÚSLA, and guidance was also sought from An Garda Síochána
• In accordance with the FAI Safeguarding Policy and Regulations, precautionary measures were put in place to protect current players
• A Safeguarding Awareness Campaign, ‘Play It Right’, was launched to offer guidance and support to anyone involved in Irish football
• An independent helpline has been set up for the reporting of any serious concerns which can be disclosed by individuals in absolute confidence.
• The Association has liaised with the Professional Footballers’ Association of Ireland, Government, Sport Ireland and continues to engage with An Garda Síochána and TÚSLA in relation to these matters
• The association will continue to assist the appropriate authorities in their ongoing enquiries.