The debate won’t go away
Limerick hurling legend Ciaran Carey has claimed the time has come for inter-county players to be paid for their services.
The former Treaty hero believes players should be rewarded based on their county’s progress in the Championship, while also advocating for the infamous ‘Champions League style’ revamp of the summer competitions.
“It would take a fair leap to try it, but I think it would actually open up the door for so-called ‘weaker teams’ coming in and everyone would get extra games,” Carey told the Sunday Independent.
“The system now has been there for years. I definitely think it needs to be looked at to keep it more attractive.
“So if you ask me if the GAA should be professional – yes, of course it should. Not every player is lucky enough to fall into the marketing and become a brand player.”
“Why not say there is a bit of a purse there for Munster finalists for €500 a man, and the further you go, there is a few extra bob in it,” said Carey, who retired from the Limerick hurling panel 11 years ago.
“I’m not saying you go out and play your first round of the championship and you get €2,000 a man. Nothing like that, start off small and work your way up. I don’t think that would break the bank or break the GAA.”
