The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) has apologised to female former players who “experienced serious historical abuse and manipulative behaviour”.
A joint investigation by two Irish media outlets – RTÉ and the Sunday Independent – detailed how multiple female footballers were the subject of alleged unwanted or inappropriate sexual advances in the 1990s. Players ranging from former Republic of Ireland internationals to trainees said the abuse had damaged careers and shattered lives. The allegations featured in an RTÉ Investigates documentary, Girls in Green, broadcast in Ireland on Sunday night.
Speaking at a media briefing in Dublin on Monday morning, the FAI interim chief executive, David Courell, apologised to the former players, saying: “We are sorry for what you had to endure, we’re sorry that anyone could have ever felt unsafe.”
He added: “We are sorry that the modern practices 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.”
An FAI statement read: “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 believes 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.”
The FAI also said it has taken “immediate and appropriate action” since meeting the women involved, including providing support to individuals affected and reporting to statutory bodies.
Precautionary measures have also been put in place to protect current players, while a safeguarding awareness campaign called “Play It Right” has been launched.