*Simon Moroney in Cusack Park. Photograph: Gerard O’Neill
SIMON MORONEY has informed Clare GAA officers that he is to step down from his role as Central Council Delegate, The Clare Echo has learned.
Éire Óg clubman Moroney is understood to have surprised fellow officers at a meeting on Tuesday night when he outlined his intention to resign as Clare GAA’s Central Council delegate at County Convention later this year.
Elected in December 2019, Simon had not completed the maximum five year term allowed to officers.
Speaking to The Clare Echo, Simon confirmed he was stepping down. “When the strategic plan was launched it spoke about getting new blood and perspectives in to Clare GAA, I’m speaking with my actions and trying to get an infusion of new blood and actions in”.
“It’s not easy to get people to commit to the time involved in these positions but this gives an opportunity to express what was hoped for in the strategic plan, if people don’t vacate positions then new people won’t come into positions”.
Regarded as one of the most competent and respected administrators in the GAA, Simon was appointed secretary of Munster Council in 2004 when he replaced Donie Nealon. He resigned from the post in 2008 but returned in 2013 when it was then called the CEO of Munster Council.
His return was initially to be for a nine month period but he remained until January 2018 when Simon again surprised colleagues when he announced his resignation.
Former GAA President, Liam O’Neill appointed him as Chairman of the powerful Central Competitions Control Committee (CCCC).
Along with his current role as Central Council Delegate, the Ennis man chaired the Caherlohan sub-committee established by Clare GAA to focus on the capital and redevelopment site of the facilities in Tulla.
From 1986 to 1988, he served as secretary of the Clare Hurling Board and was the first secretary of the County Board following the merger of both codes in 1989, staying in the role until 1990 when work commitments brought him to Dublin.
