All-Ireland League 'a priority' for NI Sports Minister

Derry City representatives held 'productive' talks with Northern Ireland Minister for Communities Deirdre Hargey this week.

Ms Anderson was part of a delegation of representatives from Derry City Football Club and Crusaders who travelled to Stormont on Wednesday to discuss plans to amalgamate the Irish League and League of Ireland.

The Derry MLA insists now is the time to explore Kieran Lucid’s in-depth proposals and agree an All-Island League.

It’s hoped further meetings with the IFA, FAI, UEFA and all relevant stakeholders in the local game will take place soon as Minister Hargey agreed to deal with the matter ‘as a priority’.

“I, along with representatives from Derry City Football Club and Crusaders FC, had a productive engagement with Sinn Féin Minister Deirdre Hargey who agreed to deal with the matter of an All-Ireland soccer league as a priority,” said Ms Anderson.

“We now need the IFA, FAI and Ministers responsible for sport on this island to collaborate and agree a way forward which also ensures that local clubs can have their say.

“This should also include reaching out to UEFA to explore all possible support they can bring to an All-Ireland league.

“I, and officials from City of Derry Football Club, will meet with the Minister again once proposals for an all-Ireland league are more fully explored with all stakeholders because it is the time to agree an All-Ireland soccer league.”