Local man Burns appointed Sligo Rovers Chairman

Sligo Rovers have announced that their new chairman is local man Joe Burns. Burns, who was formerly the MD of Stiefel Laboratories, is a lifelong supporter of the club. He was appointed to the Sligo Rovers Management Committee in 2013 and was Treasurer last year.

When contacted for comment, Burns paid tribute to his predecessor Dermot Kelly. Burns praised Kelly for ‘his outstanding contribution to the club’ while he was chairman.

“As a local man, and a committed Sligo Rovers supporter, it is a great honour to be asked to serve as Chairman of the Club,” Burns said.

While Burns has acknowledged that they cannot do anything about the events of this season, he is confident that he and the Management Committee can have a positive influence on the club during the close-season.

“While the season is almost concluded, arguably the most important time of the year for the Management Committee is the early weeks of the close-season, when we prepare for the next campaign.

“Effectively, the success of our activities in the off-season will determine our level of preparation for the 2015 campaign.”

The new Chairman admitted to knowing that the role would be challenging but he believes the help of the community will be incredibly helpful.

“I fully appreciate the challenges that lie ahead. I am encouraged by the goodwill and support that exists for Sligo Rovers right throughout the community.”

After a disappointing season for the Bit O’Red, Burns said that he believed the club and the local community would rally around and help Sligo Rovers get back to where they were in previous seasons.

He said, “I believe everyone at the club, members, committee, supporters and volunteers, are united in a common ambition to return the club to winning ways.

“We are fortunate to have a hard core of regular supporters, a hugely dedicated group of volunteers, and generous and loyal main sponsors in VW Connolly’s; this should provide a platform to build for the future.” 

Burns objective for Sligo Rovers is clear – he wants the club back challenging for the league title and European qualification.

“There is every reason to believe we can once again be competing for major silverware and challenging for European qualification in 2015. It’s what our supporters expect and deserve.”

With such a statement of intent from the new chairman, the pressure is surely on Gavin Dykes and his squad to perform to their abilities next year.