Cliftonville Director Sets Out Long-Term Vision After TIG Takeover Vote

Cliftonville director Conor Devine has outlined Toronto Investment Group's long-term plans for the Irish Premiership club after members approved the proposed takeover. BBC Sport reported that Monday's vote passed with 81% support, clearing the way for TIG to take a 90% share in the 147-year-old Belfast club while members retain the remaining 10%.

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The consortium has committed to investing £3 million during its first 36 months, according to the BBC report. Devine said the new owners do not regard Cliftonville as a short-term acquisition and described their involvement as a passion project intended to make an impact in the local area. He said the investors think on a 25-year horizon rather than planning an exit after several seasons.

Devine, one of four incoming TIG directors alongside Drew Green, John Muffolini and Ron Davidson, has longstanding ties to Cliftonville. The 48-year-old formerly played for the Reds and has also been involved locally as a coach, season-ticket holder and parent of a player. He told BBC Sport NI that the chance to help create positive change in north Belfast was central to his decision to join the project.

On the field, Devine believes Cliftonville can return to European football's leading qualifying stage and eventually operate on a full-time basis. He pointed to the club's 2013 Champions League qualifying tie against Celtic and to Larne's recent European campaign as evidence of the level Cliftonville want to reach. He stressed that progress will depend on the club, its members and the wider community working together.

The takeover also addresses Cliftonville's match-funding commitment for planned stadium work under the NI Football Fund programme. BBC Sport said the club is one of two to advance through the programme's third and most expensive tier, with a funding application worth more than £6 million. Devine said TIG wants to transform Solitude, while contractual protections cover the ground, club colours, badge and culture.

The agreement follows more than two years of difficult discussions. An earlier process stopped when members ended talks, and TIG withdrew its offer in January. Members then authorised the management committee to begin formal negotiations in June before approving the deal this week. Devine acknowledged concerns about transferring control from members to a private company and said the strength of those feelings reflected how much Cliftonville means to its supporters.