Gaelic Athletic Association To Hold Special Congress In September

The Gaelic Athletic Association confirmed that a special congress will be held on Sept. 30 to consider proposals for the reform of the hurling championships, according to RTÉ. The proposed format for the competition would see the Leinster and Munster championships "transformed into round-robin competitions" from '18. There would also be the creation of a third qualifying group, also played on a round-robin basis, "from which the winners would earn promotion to their relevant provincial championship" for the following season. Counties and provinces will have until July 14 to suggest amendments to the current proposals (RTÉ, 6/19).

HEIGHTENED SECURITY: In Dublin, Eamon Donoghue reported as of this weekend, patrons "will no longer be permitted into Croke Park with backpacks or large bags of any description." Only bags measuring 8.27in x 11.7in (21cm x 29.7cm) or smaller will be allowed into GAA HQ. The GAA said that "to avoid lengthy queues, we strongly advise you do not bring a bag" (IRISH TIMES, 6/19).