A new players’ union designed to support and protect professional footballers in Northern Ireland was officially launched in Belfast on Thursday night.
The Professional Footballers’ Association Northern Ireland (PFA NI) made its debut at a special event at the Europa Hotel which was supported by the Irish FA and the NI Football League (NIFL).
IFA chief executive Patrick Nelson and NIFL chief executive Gerard Lawlor joined club representatives and players from across the Irish Premiership, Championship and Women’s Premiership.
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The event was also attended by former Irish League footballer Michael Carvill who is part of the new PFA NI’s management committee.
But what is the Professional Footballers’ Association NI and how will it work?
Here's some more info:
Why is there a need for the Professional Footballers’ Association NI?
Up until now there has been no representative association for the growing professional game in Northern Ireland. With the growth of professional contracts in the local game it was felt that players needed a 'voice and support mechanism'. This led to Michael Carvill developing the idea through his degree thesis and engaging closely with FIFPro.
The organisation will lead the way in contractual advice, legal support, personal development and player wellbeing with a significant emphasis on players’ mental health.
Key areas of the body...
Key areas of focus for the PFA NI will be:
- Player Representation
- Mental Health & Wellbeing
- Advice & Guidance
- Legal Representation
- Coaching & Education bursaries
- Active & Up To Date Transfer List
- Player of The Month & Yearly awards ceremony
Who is Michael Carvill?
Michael Carvill started his career across the water with Charlton Athletic and Wrexham. He returned to Northern Ireland in 2008 to join Linfield, and went on to play for clubs including Crusaders and Dungannon Swifts before becoming player-manager of Kilmore Rec. He is also Coach Educator at the Irish FA.
What he said...
Michael Carvill: “As a newly formed entity we have worked tirelessly to develop the organisation, build a strong foundation and a sound governance structure. As football in this country continues to grow, so too have the demands on players, with more full-time professional contracts being awarded than ever. The lack of a players’ voice and support mechanism was identified by the players and hence the formation of the union, which we are now delighted to formally announce.”
He added: “The introduction of contracts in the women’s game is an indication of the current growth and once again highlights the education needed for players around their employment rights and contractual obligations.”
Who else is on the PFA NI management committee?
Other representatives include Stephen Lowry, Caragh Hamilton, Andrew Mitchell and Richard Clarke.
What is FIFPRO and what does it do?
Fédération Internationale des Associations de Footballeurs Professionnels (FIFPRO), the world governing body for all player unions, has pledged its support to PFA NI. It will support the growth of the new union and provide the resources to help it grow to meet the demands of its members.
Other quotes...
Northern Ireland senior women’s international and Crusaders Strikers captain Julie Nelson: “It's a fantastic time to be involved in the game and I'm delighted to be part of this new initiative. The women's game in particular has gone from strength to strength and having our own PFA can only help quicken that process.”
Stephen McGuinness, from PFA Ireland and a FIFPRO member: “PFA Ireland backs the launch and subsequent work of the PFA NI and will work collectively with its staff team to help grow the organisation across Europe and throughout the global football family.”
Irish FA chief executive Patrick Nelson: “We welcome this new venture which will provide a dedicated support function to our players on a range of issues. I am particularly pleased to see it cover the women’s game, too, and it is a welcome and needed addition to Northern Ireland’s ever growing football family.”
And NIFL chief executive Gerard Lawlor: “The launch of the PFA in Northern Ireland is a hugely important milestone in our game that we at the NI Football League welcome. I look forward to working alongside and supporting the PFA for the benefit of all our NIFL member clubs and their players."
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