Danaher condemns plan to replace Thomond Park

A PROPOSAL to replace Thomond Park as the home of Munster rugby was roundly condemned last night by former Irish international captain Phillip Danaher.

The suggestion also drew the wrath of Limerick’s mayor, Michael Hourigan, who said moving the venue to a “no-man’s land” outside of the city would undermine rugby in Munster.

Branch president Niall O’Driscoll said he wanted a purpose-built stadium erected “on the Cork side of Limerick”, describing Thomond Park as being “Third World” standard.

“No way,” said Mayor Hourigan. “Thomond Park is Munster rugby. It is more than a venue. It is the heart and soul of Munster rugby. You could never replicate the magical atmosphere in a new stadium.”

The plan was dismissed out of hand by Philip Danaher. “This Cork kite has been flying for some time,” he said. “Where will the money come from for a new stadium in a greenfield site? What they should be doing is sitting down with Limerick City Council to bring forward achievable plans to improve and expand what we already have at Thomond Park.

“Money needs to be put into developing the game not into some new stadium in the middle of nowhere,” said Mr Danaher.

Despite the criticism, Mr O’Driscoll said he was standing by his proposal, insisting it was the best option for Munster rugby.

Rugby commentator Len Dineen described the proposal as tantamount to sacrilege. “Cork for drisheen, Thomond Park for Munster rugby,” he said.