Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 May 2026
36. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport if any section of his Department has received any applications for funding for an ice hockey arena; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33159/26]
View answerA business case has been submitted to my Department regarding the proposed development of an ice hockey and winter sports arena in Cherrywood, Dublin. The facility would feature two Olympic-sized ice rinks and serve as a permanent home for Irish ice sports. The arena’s multipurpose design would also facilitate the hosting of a variety of events such as concerts, conferences and exhibitions.
While the project promoters, Prime Arena Holdings, have secured private funding for the majority of the project cost, they are also seeking sizable State investment. Minister O’Donovan and I, with officials, have met them to receive a detailed presentation on the proposal. I understand that the promoters have also engaged with a number of other Government colleagues and State Agencies.
My Department has looked at the proposed project, with a specific focus on the sporting benefits arising. The project, which proposes two ice rinks, one for use by a professional ice hockey franchise and the second made publicly available and operated in conjunction with Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, also has a range of other potential benefits.
These potential benefits arise for a range of other sectors such as tourism, business and events. Therefore, any decision regarding a significant State investment in the project would ultimately be a matter for the whole Government, based on detailed engagement and consideration by a range of other departments and agencies.
