Concern over availability of Hill 16

THERE are concerns that Hill 16 may not be available for the Bank of Ireland football Championship double-header in Croke Park on Saturday.

Despite assurances and expectations from Special Olympics organisers, strong winds have led to a delay in the deconstruction of the stage on the terrace, which was used as part of the opening and closing ceremonies for the games.

GAA officials confirmed that they had initiated the printing of tickets for Hill 16 and still hoped that the terrace would be available to them.

Officials insisted that even in the event of Hill 16 being unavailable, the stadium would still have a capacity in the region of 70,000. The GAA also assured patrons that any indications as to the Hill’s availability would be communicated immediately through normal media channels.

Stadium officials also confirmed that they are satisfied that no damage has been caused to the playing surface at the stadium which had been covered because of the games.