The GAA's Games Administration Committee have ruled against Derry's appeal for a replay of the All-Ireland minor football semi-final which Cork won by a point yesterday week. At a meeting in Croke Park on Saturday afternoon, it was decided that under present rules, there were in fact no grounds to grant a replay.

Derry had objected on the basis that one of the Cork players received two yellow cards in the game and yet remained on the field until the end.

Earlier in the day, the GAA's Central Council decided on a uniform mileage rate for inter-county players - a move which will result in a notable increase for a number of lower-profile counties. There was unanimous approval for a flat rate of 30p per mile, applicable countrywide, to be implemented from the beginning of October.

The motion was put forward by the GAA Players Committee chairman Jarlath Burns and is seen as the first significant step by the advisory group to improve treatment and expenses for inter-county players. Previously, county boards were permitted to grant mileage between range of 18p to 30p.

It was also confirmed that the structure of the hurling and football leagues will be reviewed at the GAA's special Congress in October. If the new football development committee's proposals for the altered and expanded football championship get the go-ahead, it is believed that there will be greater pressure placed on venues and necessitate the leagues finishing by April.

In addition, the Management Committee decided on the experimental use of a communications systems between referees and linesman in the coming league.

Meanwhile, Pat McEnaney of Monaghan has been appointed as referee for the International Rules series with Australia in October.