Minister suspends funding for astro turf pitches while awaiting plan to avoid flare damage

Flares were thrown onto a brand-new astroturf pitch at Oriel Park in Dundalk by Drogheda United fans as the two Louth sides faced off in the League of Ireland on Friday. Picture: Nick Elliott/Inpho

Funding for League of Ireland teams to pay for astro turf pitches has been suspended until the sports minister receives "assurances" they will not be damaged by flares.

Flares were thrown onto a brand-new astroturf pitch at Oriel Park in Dundalk by Drogheda United fans as the two Louth sides faced off in the League of Ireland on Friday.