Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 July 2024
126. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will personally raise the issue of Casement Park in his first meeting with the new British prime minister and Northern Ireland secretary of state to ensure the funding needed is committed and the project completed in time to host the upcoming European soccer championships as proposed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30601/24]
View answerOn 20 February, the Government announced an allocation of €50 million from the Shared Island Fund as its contribution towards the redevelopment of Casement Park. The Government has been clear that we would like to see Casement Park redeveloped in time to host EURO2028 matches in Belfast.
The Government remains committed to achieving this goal and will work with the Northern Ireland Executive and the British Government towards its realisation. The redevelopment of Casement Park was among the priority issues requiring close cooperation between our governments which I discussed with the new Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Hilary Benn, when we spoke on his first day in office on Friday, 5 July.
The joint hosting by Ireland and the United Kingdom of the UEFA EURO2028 Championship presents a wonderful opportunity to showcase the world-class tourism and sports offerings on these islands, and is a priority for both governments. In broader terms, the redeveloped stadium will deliver enduring benefits beyond the tournament, offering all communities in Belfast a valuable sporting amenity far into the future.
