The controversy began after the Hurling Development Committee recommended changes to the structure of the league, suggesting the current format be scrapped in favour of a new nine-team group in Division One. Offaly were hoping that there might be room for one other side after a disappointing league this season saw them finish with just two wins from their five outings. The ruling means that the county will be playing their league hurling alongside the likes of Kildare, Wicklow and Westmeath just a decade on from their All Ireland triumph.

It was also agreed yesterday that profits from the staging of rugby and soccer internationals at Croke Park would be allocated directly to county boards and local projects. The decision means that no money will be retained centrally.

Other decisions taken at GAA headquarters yesterday mean that only the 15 players that start for a side are permitted on the field for the parade and national anthem during games while county chairmen will be considered as part of the backroom team, allowing them pitchside access for games. It was also announced that gate receipts from this year's national leagues were up, meaning county boards can expect their funding to return to pre-2006 levels.