North Star RISC

The Irish Football Supporters Partnership have released the following statement in opposition to further FAI season ticket price hikes and the controversial new loyalty scheme. Irish Football Supporters Partnership (IFSP) is extremely disappointed with the MNT season ticket price increases announced by the FAI this week. When consulted by the Association, we have repeatedly stated our opposition to any price rises. During the consultation process, it became increasingly clear to us that the Association was determined to press ahead with increases regardless of our objections. Not only has a price increase now been confirmed, but season ticket holders renewing this week are required to pay 50% of the cost up front within the next 4 weeks without any idea which teams Ireland will play next year. This is unreasonable not only because of the time of year and the economic situation, but we still have two games to play in November with further significant expenses to afford for those attending. We are also disappointed with the details of the new points system for major tournaments, which sees the points for attending home games being double that awarded for away games. We strongly argued that, at the very least, the same points should be awarded regardless of a game being home or away but, again, our collective view was ignored. We have been advised that the current away ticket allocation system remains unchanged, but we strongly urge that the allocation system is revisited in advance of merging any new home and away points systems, with a comprehensive consultation process to outline the most transparent and fairest way forward. Additionally, the FAI have sought to force all supporters to purchase season tickets through their chosen platform, Ticketmaster, as individuals rather than through clubs or others who have managed multiple tickets on single accounts. This is of huge concern to CRISC whose 28 clubs purchased circa 1,500 Season Tickets this year on behalf of their members. Forcing members of supporters clubs to deal individually with Ticketmaster could have a devastating impact on many long-running national team Supporters Clubs. We are also concerned about inclusion of those without digital literacy, as clubs have performed this function on behalf of their members for many years now. We recognise that the FAI faces a need to rebalance finances following years of mismanagement; however, it is not appropriate to place this burden on supporters who are the lifeblood of the game. Ireland has one of the most consistent attendances in men’s international football and accessible pricing is a critical factor, especially at a time when all of us are faced by significant and continuing cost-of-living increases in everyday life. Given these developments, our constituent groups will continue to seek the views of their members and any supporters impacted by these increases and changes before meeting again to consider our further response and next steps.