Cliftonville Members Vote to Reopen Negotiations with TIG
Cliftonville members have approved a special resolution authorizing the club's management committee to formally negotiate with the Toronto Investment Group (TIG). This decision was made during an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) held on Thursday.
The approval revives the proposed takeover by TIG, which had previously been halted in January when the Canadian consortium withdrew their offer. The negotiations had initially progressed nearly a year ago, when then-chairman Kieran Harding received members' permission to enter talks with TIG. However, Harding later paused these discussions, leading TIG to step back from the deal.
On Thursday, a fresh vote achieved the required 75% majority, allowing new chairman Kevin Crossan and the board to resume negotiations with TIG. The vote was supported by influential figures including former chairman Jim Boyce and ex-players George McMullan and Peter Murray, whose endorsements helped secure sufficient member backing. This development could result in a takeover that significantly strengthens the club's financial position.
In an official statement, Cliftonville confirmed the passage of the special resolution, stating it "authorises the management committee to enter into formal negotiations with the Toronto Investment Group."
"Consistent with the Club Investment Governance Process outlined to members earlier this month, this authority permits the management committee, supported by appropriate professional advisors, to explore and negotiate potential terms in the best interests of the club," the statement read.
Furthermore, the club noted that its legal representatives will now engage with TIG's legal team to advance the next steps in the process.
