Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 May 2006
267 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he has had discussions with the FAI in relation to the proposal to move St. Patrick’s Athletic from Richmond Park, Inchicore; if he has met with other soccer clubs, including St. Patrick’s Athletic on this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18479/06]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Genesis report on the eircom league highlighted the need for Dublin clubs to consider ground sharing as a means of securing the significant public investment required to provide modern city stadia necessary to attract higher attendances. St. Patrick's Athletic FC is one of the four main Dublin clubs with which FAI Ireland has sought to discuss this concept with a view to identifying the main issues for the clubs concerned. The FAI has kept me and my Department informed on this matter and advised me at our meeting earlier this year, that discussions are ongoing with the clubs involved. It is my understanding that St. Patrick's Athletic FC has agreed to explore a number of options including ground sharing at Tallaght. Any proposal involving St. Patrick's Athletic FC moving from Inchicore will be a matter for the club itself to decide.
