New EU rules for GAA

THE European Union is set to introduce legislation which will prohibit GAA county boards and clubs from developing grass bank terraces.

From June 21, all sports grounds will have to comply with strict EU guidelines for future developments.

“Such terraces are part and parcel of local grounds the length and breadth of the country,” said Gar Holohan, executive chairman of Holohan Sport and Leisure.

“You see them in nearly every local GAA, soccer and rugby club in Ireland. They will now become a thing of the past.”

Speaking at the Sports and Leisure Facilities for 2020 conference, Holohan added: “The effect will be far reaching. It will mean that all sports facilities will have to be fully wheelchair- compatible, to the extent that people in wheelchairs cannot have their view obstructed at any time, even by someone rising off the seat in front of them.