New York GAA ground assessed

HOPES of establishing a new home for the GAA in New York will depend on whether the Croke Park Management Committee decides that the planned development on Randalls Island is feasible.

During the week, President Sean Kelly visited the city and met with the different groups involved in the project. He was accompanied by Brian McEniff and former Dublin captain Tony Hanahoe, having called on their respective business and legal expertise.

Mr Kelly has appointed former president Peter Quinn to oversee the entire project estimated to cost $9 million (E7.4m). The Management Committee has already committed E2m.

New York is regarded by many as the capital of the world and it has traditionally been seen as the capital of the GAA overseas. This latest opportunity is too good to pass over," said Mr Kelly. He says Gaelic Park the traditional home of the GAA in New York is "not viable" long term. "From the perspective of a county grounds, where Ulster and Connacht championship matches are played, it's hardly up to standard,'' he added.