O’Riordan reveals Limerick Gaelic Grounds operating at loss

Limerick secretary Mike O’Riordan will tell delegates at Sunday’s county convention the Gaelic Grounds is ‘operating at a loss.’

O’Riordan admits the cost of rates and amenities along with the lack of high profile games at the county ground is hitting the county coffers.

However he will also reveal a number of plans that are in place to boost revenues.

He said: “Páirc na nGael is currently operating at a loss. This is mainly due to excessive rates and water charges and then add in electric and gas costs. The facility needs at least €200,000 to operate at the present time. This year saw new advertising signs in the Grounds on both scoreboards. It is envisaged that the signage will go around the back wall of the Stadium which will generate additional income.

“The pitch side signage has decreased in recent times due to the fact that in the Championship games live on television, all pitch side signage is covered and only national sponsors are on display.

“Approval was given by the City Council in November for a sign on the Mackey Stand which will also generate additional income.

“The process to amend a planning stipulation at Páirc na nGael whereby the venue would be in a position to host concerts or open-air events is well underway and hopefully by Convention there will be a favourable response from the local authority.

“This year saw a limited number of matches held at the Ennis Road venue. Even though the Munster Senior Football final was played there the crowd was very disappointing. The National League fixtures weren’t very attractive either in Hurling or Football this year.

“Next season will see a number of high profile games at Páirc na nGael — Limerick v Cork, Munster SFC; Limerick v Tipperary, Munster SHC and possibly two other Munster Hurling Championship games depending on the progression of teams.

“There will have to be considerable thought given to some club fixtures played at Páirc na nGael under lights and the economic value of same. There are large sums due for water, rates and electricity annually and it’s important that we can maximise the use of the facility during these times.”