The GAA has lost another high profile face from its ranks after Dónal McAnallen today resigned from his position as Secretary of the Higher Education Council, citing a disillusionment with the direction of association.
McAnallen, brother of the late Tyrone captain Cormac, said today at a meeting of the council that he will resign with immediate effect, having seen the association change direction with the approval of the player's grant scheme.
"I have no income at present and I'm in debt. My dedication to GAA committee work has cost me too much time, effort, stress, and my health at times also," McAnallen stated.
"Up to now I kept involved because I got a sense of fulfilment from doing that work, as I thought the association served a greater good in Irish life, and I thought everyone was working towards the same ends.
"But since the weekend, I realised that the association is changing direction altogether. Suddenly I knew I had lost interest in doing the voluntary work if the sport ceases to be for sport's sake.
"Many GAA volunteers, including some of my fellow committee members, have made similar sacrifices. Now I wonder whether it was all worthwhile. At least I can concentrate on other things from here on."
McAnallen's resignation comes four days after that of Mark Conway from Club Tyrone. Conway was another vocal opponent of the grants scheme.
McAnallen has held a number of roles in the GAA as a player and administrator.
He is the longest serving member of the Higher Education Council and has served four years as treasurer and is in his third term as secretary.
Despite the reasons for his resignation, McAnallen paid tribute to GAA president Nickey Brennan and Player Welfare Officer Paraic Duffy, who he recently worked alongside on issues including the provision of defibrillators, cardiac screening and scholarships.
"I admire them greatly and on a personal level I am grateful for many things they have done. While I do not agree with current policy on this issue, my actions are not meant as a slight on them, and I fully support their leadership in every other respect."