Ahern puts pressure on GAA to open Croke Park

THERE was growing pressure on the GAA to open up Croke Park last night, with Taoiseach Bertie Ahern saying he favoured the temporary lifting of Rule 42.

This would allow international soccer and rugby matches to be played at the stadium.

Mr Ahern said it would be "a shame" if Irish teams had to play home matches abroad while Lansdowne Road was being renovated.