GAA 'blackmailed by the Government' Sporting body must reapply for €40m

The Government was accused last night of putting a gun to the head of the GAA by telling the organisation to reapply for 40 million previously promised to them.

The Taoiseach has also told GAA chiefs that he wants Croke Park opened up for soccer, but insists there are no strings attached to future grants.

Opposition parties say the GAA are effectively being blackmailed by the Government into making Croke Park available for other sports in return for funding.