The Gaelic Players' Association have released a statement expressing its sadness at the decision by the Donegal county board not to retain the services of chairman Danny Harkin.
Harkin, a vocal supporter of improved conditions for players and a form of pay-for-play, was replaced by Brian McEniff at the recent county convention after a vote of no confidence by delegates.
His removal has prompted the GPA to release a statement today in which chief executive Dessie Farrell accused the Donegal county board of a knee-jerk reaction to Harkin's comments.
"Whilst we do acknowledge the democratic nature of the GAA we believe that Mr Harkin's failure to retain the chair was as a direct result of his considered and heartfelt plea on behalf of inter-county players," said the Dublin footballer.
"Undoubtedly the Donegal Executive will refute this allegation," he continued. "But the fact remains that following his remarks concerning player welfare, his colleagues on the board quickly isolated him and released a statement to disassociate the board from these comments, despite the fact that Mr Harkin had full and unequivocal support of the Donegal senior football team."
Farrell added: "On behalf of the players across the country the GPA would like to take this opportunity to thank Mr Harkin for his enlightened contribution to this ongoing debate . . . It is a well-known fact that many other administrators privately harbour similar attitudes but are reticent to publicly acknowledge same, in fear of suffering a fate identical to that of Mr Harkin."