The new move was designed with the intention of reducing official personnel on sidelines, thus reducing the prospects of flashpoints between opposing benches.

But according to the GAA rulebook, Central Council do not have the authority to do this as it involves a change of rule and, therefore, requires the approval of Congress.

Rule 1.4 of the Rules of Control of the Official Guide (Part 2) states: "Incursions . . . A team official shall not enter the field of play" with the exception of a medic when given permission by the referee to attend to an injured player. According to Rule 76 (d), one of the functions of Congress is to "consider motions and to enact, amend, or rescind Rules, " and with regard to Central Council Rule 85 (i) states: "Nothing in this rule shall be construed so as to admit to Central Council or its sub-committees authority to introduce, enact, amend or rescind rules, or in any way vary or derogate the power reserved to Congress by Rule 76. This Rule shall in all respects be subject to Rule 76 and in the event of conflict Rule 76 shall prevail."

So if the GAA goes ahead with the 'runner' for the National League starting in February and without Congress's approval, they will be breaking their own rules. This is not the first time the association has implemented rules without the approval of Congress. The experiemental rules themselves were illegal from inception because they were inserted into the official guide without any authorising motion to Congress or any discussion at Congress about these amendments.