Final €40m Croke Park grant allocated

THE Government is to allocate the final grant of €40 million to the GAA for the redevelopment of Croke Park.

A first installment of €20m will be paid this year with a further €20m in 2005.

The announcement brings the level of exchequer contribution to €110m towards the €265m cost of the project.

Sports Minister John O’Donoghue said: “It is of particular satisfaction to me to be able to recognise the immense contribution to sport which has been made over the years by the many men and women who have given of their time and effort to Gaelic Games on a voluntary basis. The GAA is largely an amateur organisation and has an enviable achievement in the field of Gaelic sport.

“It has fostered healthy outdoor activity for young people, provided real involvement in sport for the gifted as well as the merely wishful sports activist, and generated a passionate sense of local identity for communities throughout the country.

“I wish to express my appreciation for the support I received from the former Minister for Finance and new EU Commissioner, Charlie McCreevy TD, in ensuring that this additional funding would be provided for the Croke Park development.

“This brings to a satisfactory conclusion issues relating to funding for the redevelopment of Croke Park.

“The leadership and understanding shown by Sean Kelly, President of Cumann Luthchleas Gael, in relation to this matter is also greatly appreciated and admired,” added Mr O’Donoghue.

The news was welcomed by Mr Kelly, who said the allocation would “significantly reduce the financial strain on the GAA in servicing the €100m debt accrued as a result of its investment in Headquarters”.

Mr Kelly said: “The members of the GAA are justifiably proud of the magnificent edifice that is now Croke Park and they and their clubs countrywide will hugely appreciate the Government’s commitment to the stadium and Gaelic games.”