Local clubs reminded of development projects risks following tarmac scam

Meath GAA clubs have been reminded of the risks associated with physical development projects following a concerning incident in which a local club fell victim to a deceptive tarmac scam.

In the wake of this recent scam, Meath GAA clubs are being advised to exercise heightened vigilance and adhere strictly to recommended guidelines when undertaking any physical development or maintenance work.

These measures are in place not only to ensure the quality and safety of the projects but also to protect Meath clubs from potential fraud or malpractice.

Here are some key steps to follow:

Verification of Contractors: Always ensure that any contractor engaged for work is fully vetted and comes with credible references. Do not accept unsolicited offers for work, no matter how appealing they may seem.

Formal Agreements: All agreements should be formalised in writing. This includes detailed descriptions of the work to be done, total costs, payment terms, and timelines.

Approval Processes: Ensure that any significant development work has the necessary approvals from the Club Committee and the County Committee.

Seek Advice: When in doubt, seek advice. Utilise the expertise within the GAA network – be it legal, construction, or financial – to guide your decisions.

Regular Communication: Keep regular communication with the County Committee regarding any major projects. This helps in ensuring compliance with GAA standards and may also assist in identifying any potential red flags.

In a letter to Clubs, Meath Secretary Ciaran Flynn stressed the importance of adhering to established protocols and urged all Meath clubs to exercise heightened vigilance:

"Remember, the security and integrity of our facilities are paramount. It's vital that we collectively work to safeguard our clubs against any such threats."