Referee shortage reaches 'critical stage' as North Tipperary soccer leagues struggle to fulfil fixtures

The shortage of soccer referees in North Tipperary has reached a "critical stage", with local leagues struggling to fulfil fixtures due to a lack of available match officials.

That is according to the North Tipperary branch of the Irish Soccer Referees Society (ISRS), which has issued an urgent appeal for new recruits to take up the whistle in an effort to address the growing problem.

In a statement posted on social media, the branch highlighted the difficulties currently facing leagues throughout the region, with the shortage of referees placing increasing pressure on the scheduling and completion of fixtures.

"All the leagues in our jurisdiction are struggling to fulfil fixtures due to a lack of match officials," the statement read.

However, the branch is hoping to encourage more people to get involved in refereeing by highlighting the opportunities available, including fully funded training courses and the potential to earn additional income.

In the case of the North Tipperary and District League (NT&DL), the entire cost of undertaking the required refereeing course, which amounts to more than €100, will be covered for those interested in becoming qualified match officials.

Those who complete the course will also receive full support from the local ISRS branch and the leagues as they begin their refereeing careers.

The branch has stressed, however, that addressing the shortage will require the cooperation of clubs throughout the region.

It has called on local clubs to "encourage and back any individual, male or female, who wishes to take up the whistle", with the hope that greater awareness of the opportunities available will encourage more people to get involved.

Aside from playing an important role in keeping local soccer fixtures running, refereeing also offers an opportunity to earn additional income while enjoying the outdoors, staying active and meeting new people.

Under the current NT&DL payment structure, referees receive €80 for officiating Premier Division fixtures, while First Division, Second Division and Youths matches carry a fee of €70 per game.

There are also tax considerations for those interested in taking up refereeing.

Revenue applies a €5,000 threshold when determining whether individuals with non-PAYE income, including casual earnings from activities such as refereeing, are required to register for self-assessment.

Those whose referee fees remain below this amount will generally not be required to register for self-assessment or submit an income tax return solely because of those earnings, although the income may still need to be declared and remains subject to the applicable tax rules.

With the shortage of officials now described as critical, the North Tipperary ISRS branch is hoping that its appeal, together with the availability of funded training and support, will encourage new referees to come forward and help safeguard the future of local soccer.

Anyone interested in undertaking the fully funded refereeing course or seeking further information can contact ISRS North Tipperary Branch secretary Naoise Lawlor on 087 644 0952 or by email at [email protected].