The progress being made in the Technical Department will be formally recognised at the UEFA Congress in Düsseldorf next week, when the FAI will be among the initial eight associations to be admitted to the UEFA Grassroots Charter.

There is currently one registered referee for every eight registered teams in Ireland while the average among the 52 members of UEFA is one referee for every two teams.

The FAI Referee Development Plan is the vehicle through which an agreed, effective and integrated refereeing recruitment, training and development framework will be achieved.

Under the leadership of the Football Association of Ireland, and in partnership with the Irish Soccer Referees and other affiliates and stakeholders, the provision of more fulfilling opportunities will be achieved through the delivery of high quality programmes, structures and facilities.

The FAI Referee Development Plan has been compiled following a period of extensive study and stakeholder consultation. The plan sets out the framework for the future development of the game with eight specific objectives including recruitment and administration support.

FAI technical director, Packie Bonner said: “The resources of the FAI Technical Department, together with the experience, knowledge and enthusiasm of the Irish Soccer Referee Society will work together to enable all referees to attain the level that they wish according to their ability and effort.

He added: “From the initial meetings of this development group to the national workshops held around the country, there is an obvious need for the recruitment, retention and continued education and development of all aspects of refereeing in order to facilitate the growth and enjoyment of football in this country.”

FAI chief executive John Delaney said: “The publication of the Referee Development Plan marks an historic moment for the development of refereeing in this country.”

Adding: “The Football Association of Ireland is making football accessible to anyone who wishes to participate in the game at all levels.

"The family of football has grown ever stronger in recent years, with football now recognised as the most participative team sport in Ireland.

"The continued development of the game is a priority for the Association and commitment to the development of the refereeing sector, in particular, is shown by the significant resources invested in the production and implementation of this development plan.”