More details have emerged from the IFA AGM, which was coming to a close as we went to print last week.

Confusion arose before lunch after a shock decision from four council members to propose a motion of no confidence in IFA general secretary Pat Smith.

It had been discussed by its four proposers at the weekend, but not shared. It came as a bombshell on the day.

When convened after lunch, the IFA president Eddie Downey proposed a motion expressing confidence in the general secretary, in response to the motion put forward by Laois IFA.

It received the support of 29 people, with five voting against.

Some abstained, including Derek Deane, who declined to vote in protest at the absence of a secret ballot.

There was an element of confusion as some of the executive council were not present, and some, such as county secretaries, were present but did not have a vote. Following the success of the president’s motion, all other motions were withdrawn.

A further motion was put forward by Kilkenny chair John Bambrick, proposing the vote of confidence be unanimous. This was seconded and unopposed.

Committee secretary Bryan Barry clarified the chain of events that had taken place, without opposition. However, some who voted against the first vote say they were unaware of this final motion in the confusion of what had been a dramatic day.