Chairman Peter Clarke: Carrick Rangers back measures to stop clubs spiralling into financial limbo

Carrick Rangers chairman Peter Clarke has revealed his support for financial protocols to be implemented

Tiernan Lynch's Larne are one club that have expressed opposition to certain financial measures in the Irish League

Stuart King has learned that he will serve a five-match touchline ban for unsporting conduct towards a match official

Carrick Rangers chairman Peter Clarke says his club is firmly behind plans to implement fresh financial protocols aimed at preventing clubs from mounting debts.

The clubs have agreed to work together on a number of issues, including the difficult subject of a new wage cap.

Larne are opposed to the introduction of new financial regulations, but several clubs are in favour of protections in an era of spiralling salaries.

No decision has been taken on whether fresh financial protocols will be brought in, but further discussions are expected.

In 2010, the clubs implemented the Salary Cap Protocol (SCP) which operated until 2020. The SCP was deemed obsolete following the investments of Kenny Bruce at Larne and Ali Pour at Glentoran, but enhanced wages have led to many clubs wanting it introduced again.

Carrick chief Clarke says it’s right that every effort should be made to curb overspending.

“I think it is an essential requirement for any League,” argued Clarke.

“I’m not saying anyone is doing anything wrong, but I feel it’s a good preventative measure.

“It’s just another blanket to make sure that clubs make the right decisions at the right time and don’t get overexcited at any point.

“We don’t want clubs to suffer financial hardship.

“Whether it’s salary cap protocols or Financial Fair Play, the mechanism can ensure clubs are working in the right manner.

“As a businessperson, it would be