New GAA testing regime defended

Ger Ryan is chairman of the GAA's Medical, Scientific and Welfare committee that signed off on the new system.

There has been a mixed reaction to the new regime, which comes into force on January 1st next.

For example, the Dublin footballer Bernard Brogan has said that he doesn't think the 'invasive' move will be welcomed by amateur players who have little or nothing to gain from cheating.

Ger, who's also PRO of the Munster Council, believes the way the testing arrangments have been designed will ensure that there'll be careful consideration of the unique circumstances of amateur players, their support personnel and team and training structures.