The FAI has apologised to a number of former female football players and trainees who took part in Ireland's first State-funded all-women soccer course.

It follows allegations that FAI coaches made unwanted or inappropriate sexual advances to women in the 1990s.

The allegations came to light through a joint investigation by RTÉ Investigates and the Sunday Independent, detailed in the documentary 'Girls in Green' on Sunday night.

'Deeply shocked'

Speaking this morning, FAI Interim CEO David Courell said the association is “deeply shocked” by the revelations.

“I'm angry to hear that these women could have had these experiences in football,” he said.

“The board and the executive of the FAI are deeply shocked and appalled by these revelations.

“I can assure you that providing a safe environment for all involved in Irish football is our paramount consideration.

“[To] the women affected by this, we hear you, we are sorry for what you have had to endure.”

FAI chief operating officer David Courell. Image: PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo

Meanwhile, the FAI said it has already taken several actions, including providing support to the women affected.

The association's People and Culture Director Aoife Rafferty says any woman who has experienced similar will now be able to raise it appropriately.

“We set up the support framework that's available to them right now, but we understood at that time that actually there could be others who would require that support,” she said.

“Hence, we set up the independent, raise a concern helpline to ensure that if anyone has witnessed or experienced anything similar, that they have an opportunity to raise it appropriately.”

FAI processes

Minister for Sport Catherine Martin praised the bravery of the women who have spoken out and said all athletes should have the assurance of protection.

“What we have in place though are modern safeguarding structures and I think the FAI have had the proper processes in place and I'm assured of that,” she said.

“There are legal processes in place now so I have to be careful in how I comment [so] that it wouldn't be inappropriate, but I welcome what the FAI have said in their press conference today.”

Gardaí have launched an investigation into one senior ex-coach related to the accusations, while a separate complaint has also been made about a second senior coach.

Both have denied any wrongdoing.

Main image: Close up of Republic of Ireland FIFA World Cup 2002 kit. Image: Alan Smith / Alamy Stock Photo