Representatives of Bangor Men’s Hockey Club and Ulster Hockey met on the 29th July to discuss the ongoing issue related to the Ulster Hockey decision to implement automatic promotion and relegation for 2 teams between the Men’s Premier League and Intermediate League.
This decision was made following the Hockey Ireland directive to end all Provincial Leagues invoking Rule 2(c) of the Competitions Regulations for 2019/20; and following an appeal against this decision by Bangor Men’s HC an independent appeals panel determined that the decision had been made within the rules available to the Ulster Hockey Competitions Committee and Board, and that the correct procedure had been followed.
Whilst Bangor Men’s Hockey Club still consider that the decision was unfair, the meeting was positive and both parties have reached a common understanding. In light of feedback provided by Bangor Men’s HC, Ulster Hockey has committed to review elements of the appeals process, and in particular communication of decisions with member clubs and communication during an appeals process, to ensure continued governance improvement.
Both Bangor Men’s Hockey Club and Ulster Hockey consider the matter of last seasons’ leagues is now resolved and both have agreed to engage positively going forward for the betterment of the sport of hockey in Ulster.
