MEP Kelly welcomes €30m Páirc Uí Chaoimh boost, following successful lobby campaign

Having successfully led a campaign to see Cork’s number one sporting ground redeveloped, Sean Kelly MEP has warmly welcomed the confirmation that the government will invest €30 million in Páirc Uí Chaoimh, in conjunction with an overall project by Cork GAA.

Speaking tonight (Tuesday), the former GAA President who was instrumental in garnering government support for the Páirc Uí Chaoimh project, said: “I am delighted to confirm that the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport have committed to investing €30 million to support Cork GAA’s redevelopment plans.

“Cork GAA is undertaking a €70m redevelopment of Páirc Uí Chaoimh along with the development of a centre of excellence including a full sized all-weather training facility and establishment of a local Marina Park.

“The €30 million in support from the government will allow this project to progress with the balance (€40m) being funded by the GAA.

“Having personally spoken to An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, in favour of this project, outlining its importance for Cork, I welcome the confirmation that it will go ahead.”

Mr Kelly, who is a member of the European Parliament’s Committee on Sport, says this development also adds to Ireland’s chances of bidding to host the Rugby World Cup: “Having state-of-the-art facilities available will be taken into account when assessors consider where to hold future Rugby World Cups and this project is another step in the right direction for Ireland’s chances.”