'Absolutely disgraceful' - Fans furious as Carlow GAA goes cashless at Netwatch Cullen Park

Carlow GAA has announced that Netwatch Cullen Park is going cashless from Thursday forward in a move that has angered fans. 

In a statement posted to their Facebook page on Sunday, Carlow GAA said that cash will no longer be accepted at the county grounds with “cashless entry” being the new method. 

“All games at Netwatch Cullen Park, commencing with the first match of the Senior Football Championship between Rathvilly and Palatine on Thursday 22nd August will be cashless entry,” the post began. 

“Tickets may be pre-purchased online, or paid by way of tap and go at one dedicated entry point at the grounds.

“The link to purchase tickets will be available in advance of all games,” it concluded. 

Carlow GAA boss Jim Bolger has since defended the move as they were the last county in the country to hold out before adopting online ticketing.

“We’re the only county in Ireland who hasn’t online ticketing,” he told the Carlow Nationalist. “Twenty-one counties have Ticketmaster, eight have Future Ticketing and two have Club Spot, so we’re the only ones out of step with the rest.

“We’re just coming into step with what the recommendations are and we’re keeping in line with the rest of the counties around the country, who’ve had this system in long before us.”

“Cash handling is a no-no. Steward numbers are dwindling and cash requires more of a resource; this is alleviating pressure on our stewards, so there are positives all round.”

To ease the transition to a full ticket-only system, spectators attending games this weekend will be able to tap with their debit or credit cards.

“We’re not discriminating against anybody. We’ll operate tap and go for the start, before we have this embedded, so people can come with a card,” Bolger said. 

“There would be a very small minority who would be discommoded, but there’s lots of help between relations and clubs. They can go to their clubs and ask people who are computer literate to help.”

Bolger also clarified that cashless entry will only apply to Netwatch Cullen Park initially before being adopted in Fenagh. 

“To get people used to the system, it’s just for matches in Netwatch Cullen Park, but when we have it established, we will ensure that we apply the same standard to the Centre of Excellence training centre in Fenagh as well.”

Fans have voiced their anger in reply to the announcement on Carlow GAA’s account, with many calling the decision “digraceful” and questioning the impact on elderly fans. 

One user commented: “Disgraceful. What about the elderly or anyone that prefers cash. I won't be attending.”

Another branded the move: “A disgraceful decision by Carlow GAA. Shame on them.”

While a third user said: “Disgraceful decision. Cash is still legal tender. Why create more obstacles for people who want to support the clubs. Bad enough to be starting football championships heading into winter without this. Was this in place for hurling championship? Split season!”