Fermanagh Secretary Tom Boyle is seeking greater consistency on the use of the Black Card by referees. In his report to Convention, Boyle says: “This year saw the introduction of a number of rule changes with the black card and the advantage rule being most talked about. While most of our referees coped well with these changes, there is still work to be done in ensuring the consistent application of the black card rule across all levels.” And Referee Committee Chairman Harry Traynor believes that some referee’s have avoided using the Black Card: “Disciplinary processes are ever present and I would have to add that the introduction of the Black Card has made a difference though a number of referee’s have actively avoided it’s use to their own detriment.” However, CCC Chairman Greg Kelly does feel that the black card has brought about a more free flowing game.

“The introduction of the Black Card this year was the main talking point before the season began. Every GAA person now has their own opinion on the effect of the Black Card but I think it is fair to say that it has contributed to a more free flowing game and that the doom and gloom predictions of teams finishing matches much depleted in numbers did not materialise.” Secretary Boyle also hit out at the number of Erne Cup games that were not fulfilled during 2014 and feels it is something that needs ‘serious consideration’.

“One of my major concerns from the games programme in 2014 was the number of Erne Cup games that were not played by clubs (21 games not played). CCC had provided the fixture but for various reasons games were conceded resulting in some clubs getting as little as one home Erne Cup fixture. I would appeal to everyone to give this issue serious consideration so that we can deliver a meaningful programme of games for 2015.” On the subject of unfulfilled fixtures, Boyle was critical of the Fermanagh U21 Hurling side withdrawing from U21 Ulster Shield having progressed to the final to meet Tyrone.

“It was very disappointing that our team management decided to pull the team out at very short notice, citing the unavilability of players to travel on the night. It is important that when we enter competitions that we make every effort to fulfil all fixtures, especially a final, irrespective of who we are playing,” he added.

Boyle went on to warn of the dangers of social media and advised members to follow the guidance in the ‘Social Media Policies and Guidelines.’ “Social media platforms are great in that they offer people a way to communicate instantly with each other. However, we continue to have examples where social media is used in a negative way. The recent highlighted case of the abuse suffered by Meath referee Patrick Nelis is a case in point. These type of instances present us all with difficult challenges and with this in mind I again appeal to all our clubs to encourage members to act responsibly and follow the guidance in the ‘Social Media Policies and Guidelines.’ It is often better to take a moment to think about what is written before posting it,” he stated.

In his report last year, Boyle had called for a review of the existing facilities at Lissan and put in place a plan to maintain existing structures and explore new developments on the Lissan site. However, this failed to materialise.

“A year later I have to report that no progress has been made on this front. The development of our strategy for the next three years presents us with an ideal opportunity to identify future development and bring forward a plan of work at this site.” The Secretary went on to thank all the sponsors for their support during the year while also encouraging everyone to give their full support to the re-launched Club Eirne with the group holding a launch night on Tuesday December 16 in the Enniskillen Hotel.