Cork GAA defend charging entry fee for hurlers' homecoming

Cork GAA said the charge was used to pay for event security and also additional safety measures which were required to hold the event.

The Cork team before the All-Ireland hurlin final against Clare. Picture: ©INPHO/James Crombie

Cork GAA has defended charging a €4 entry fee for Monday evening's homecoming for the county's hurlers at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh. The association said that the fee was used to pay for event security and additional safety measures required to hold the event at the stadium.

The family-friendly Rebels' Return, organised by Cork GAA and the Cork City Council, was fully ticketed and alcohol free. 

Several musical acts including The Frank and Walters, John Spillane, J90 and Myles Gaffney were scheduled to perform on stage.

"The need for the modest charge is to pay for the extra security and additional safety measures that are needed in order to run the event safely," said a spokesperson for Cork GAA.

"The charge is also in place to ensure organisers can manage tickets for the event in a fair way. It is essential that the event is run in a family friendly and safe way which means we need to hire additional security."

Rebels return - The Frank & Walters take to the stage! pic.twitter.com/wpG0hNRwo9

— Cork GAA (@OfficialCorkGAA) July 22, 2024

It was organised to "acknowledge the unshakeable support of Cork hurling fans throughout 2024" and was said to be "an opportunity for Cork fans to thank the team for their efforts throughout this season, and start the road back to Croke Park for next year".

“The result may not have gone our way (on Sunday), but we are so proud of Pat Ryan’s team for what they have achieved," said Cork GAA CEO Kevin O'Donovan.

"Rebels Return will be an event for our incredible fan base. They have been with us throughout this year, in the rain and the sun, cheering from their homes, and painting the county the Rebel red. Let’s close this chapter in style, and start working on the next."