Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I agree with the Deputy that a bailout is out of the question, and we will not yield in that regard. Many players are involved, including UEFA, the FAI and Sport Ireland. We met the FAI at its request in order that it could outline the gravity of the circumstances. It has not in any way accepted there is some sort of Doomsday scenario. It came to us to warn us of how bad it was, give us some stark figures and determine whether any money was available from the State. My guess is it will now have to come up with a new plan, which may or may not be viable, but it will depend on the banks, which will have to decide whether they will give a further extension. UEFA is also funding it. That is where the solution will lie.

If the independent directors are appointed, I expect there will be a new atmosphere in respect of the issue. That they are not in place - I do not point the finger at anybody - means there is a blockage. The appointment of the independent directors will release a dynamic that will be quickly followed by a process to appoint an independent chief executive and an independent chair, which is what we sought.