BBC Sport understands several Glentoran players have signed new deals, however, the majority of the Women’s Premiership clubs were against paying players for the new season and NIFL decided the league will retain its amateur status in 2022.
Speaking to the BBC, Lawlor said it was “unfair” that NIFL has been tasked to come up with solutions and is frustrated by the lack of input from the Irish FA, football’s governing body in Northern Ireland.
“It is not our job to develop the ladies’ game, that lies with the governing body,” added Lawlor, who said he has had discussions with the IFA and NIWFA.
“We all must sit down, develop the way forward together. I feel some elements of football are not pulling their weight.
“We will run a professional league in NIFL the year after next, but we have a responsibility and a care for the rest of the ladies’ game domestically, and I think the domestic ladies game is being ignored at this time.”
In response, An Irish FA spokesperson commented that the association is “committed to translating the current success of our senior women’s team into greater participation at grassroots level.
“This will in turn help the club game flourish, result in more players coming through the pathway and, ultimately, improving the game for everyone.
“Partners like NIFL and NIWFA are crucial to making this happen. We recognise their contribution today on International Women’s Day, and indeed the contribution of everyone working to increase opportunities for women and girls to progress in football across Northern Ireland both on, and off, the pitch.”