GAA in profit for ninth year in a row

The GAA has reported a positive year financially for the Association, following the announcement of its 2009 annual accounts at Croke Park today.

Gate receipts dropped by almost €1m on 2008 figures, but this was compensated for by an increase in commercial revenue of more than €3m.

A record revenue of close to €68m was achieved by the Association in 2009 despite the economic downturn.

The GAA's Director of Finance Tom Ryan reported that last year was a positive one on a number of fronts for the Association.

Attendances remained strong despite financial turmoil in the economy with the GAA's new innovative ticketing packages helping to ensure healthy levels of support.

Cost pressures had been anticipated and budgeted for with savings achieved as a result.

Croke Park Stadium Director General Peter McKenna reported a healthy year for Pairc an Chrocaigh finances, which saw profit for the ninth year in succession.

It was also the first time for the stadium to achieve a profit in excess of €50m.

McKenna also stated that Croke Park will not be able to substitute the revenue from hosting soccer and rugby Internationals, but that the objective will be to introduce new initiatives to maintain the stadium as a positive contributor to central financial resources.

Central Council coffers have been boosted to the tune of €51.5m since 2006 by funds transferred from Croke Park due to the hosting of events.

McKenna also reported that 2.1 million people had attended events in the stadium during 2009 - a record number.