Dispute between North Middlesex Referees Society and Middlesex Referees Association

It is regrettable, but negotiations between North Middlesex Referees Society and the Middlesex Referees Association have broken down, and it appears - at this stage - that we have irreconcilable differences. Because of this, it is possible that you will receive a letter direct from the Referees Association of England. At this stage, we have no idea as to what this letter might say, and whether it will be factually correct according to the views of North Middlesex Referees Society. We have requested sight of this letter, but to date it has not been received.
What we are certain of is that it will include a form inviting you to join the Referees Association of England direct. This will in fact cost you more than if you join through the Society - which will bear the cost whilst we continue to pursue avenues to to resolve the differences.
However, we as a Society feel that the main benefit available to Members is the Personal Accident Insurance provided by the Referees Association. As a Society, we can obtain this insurance for you at a cheaper rate than your subscription to the Referees Association of England for season 2006/2007.
When we issue the Society Membership forms with the April magazine, we will give you the option of joining the Referees Association of England or just paying a subscription plus Insurance Premium to North Middlesex Referees Society. This will be accompanied by a fuller version of the events surrounding this dispute.

Subsequent to this article being produced, matters have progressed further, and, notwithstanding what happens with the Society's affiliation to MRA/RAE, ALL Members will continue to be registered as Members of the RAE. Additionally, the Society has now arranged a meeting with the Amateur Football Association Referees Society with a view to discussing a means for the Society to affiliate to the RAE through them.

Gary Cobden