GAA dismiss reports Croker would be open for possible play-off

GAA chiefs have angrily dismissed suggestions that Croke Park could be available for a World Cup play-off if the Republic of Ireland finish second in Group Four tonight.

The Association’s PRO Danny Lynch yesterday described as “mischievous” a newspaper report which claim that such a fixture at GAA headquarters might be permissible under the landmark motion agreed at this year’s Congress to amend Rule 42.

According to Mr Lynch, this motion makes it “perfectly clear that an application from the IRFU or the FAI for the use of the ground can only be made when Lansdowne Road is closed for redevelopment.”

He added that it was disingenuous to infer that there could be a “loophole” in the rules which would allow the Central Council to make Croke Park available for such a play-off.

“The article is mischievous in the scenario where a lengthy debate took place prior to the motion being passed at this year’s Congress, where it was clear to everybody what the essence and thrust and spirit of the motion was,’’ he commented.

“It was specifically that Central Council would be empowered to take a decision on an application received from the IRFU or the FAI to play international matches in Croke Park - but only while the redevelopment programme is taking place in Lansdowne Road.’’

Mr Lynch pointed out that this had been confirmed on a number of occasions since Congress made its decision in April by a number of senior figures in the GAA, including President Sean Kelly and President-elect Nicky Brennan.

He stressed this scenario was “clearly understood” by the other sporting bodies.

“What’s being talked of here is a possible clash of fixtures between rugby and soccer. Lansdowne Road is not closed.’’

Nicky Brennan made the Association’s position crystal clear following his choice as President-elect, saying that the decision to amend Rule 42 was the “only decision” that would be relevant during his three-year term.

“At a particular point in time, bulldozers will move into Lansdowne Road. There will be an agreed date when the facility [Croke Park] will be made available, based on a commitment to start building in Lansdowne Road and there will be a known end date when that is going to be done. It will be during that period of time and that time only.”