A game changer for the wee county: Louth GAA Stadium gets green light
Sinn Féin spokesperson for sport Louth/East Meath TD Joanna Byrne has expressed her delight at the news that funding has been secured for a new GAA stadium, saying she was proud to have played a role in the project's progression.
'This good news been a long time coming. In my first term as a Louth County Councillor almost ten years ago I attended briefings on this project,' she said. 'I also voted to transfer land from Louth County Council to the GAA so this project could go ahead, at that time,' she Byrne. 'I am beyond happy that a new state of the art stadium will be build for the many Louth GAA fans to go to and enjoy matches.'
The announcement comes on the heels of Louth's thrilling victory in the Leinster semi-final, Deputy Byrne added that 'it is a really great week for Louth GAA and the supporters.'
Funding for the stadium has been secured through a combination of sources, including an agreed levy that will be contributed by local clubs. 'Everyone involved with Louth GAA can say they've contributed to this new stadium,' added Deputy Byrne.
Looking ahead, the Sinn Féin TD is optimistic about Louth's future on the pitch. 'On May 11th Louth play Meath for the Delaney Cup in Croke Park. I am hoping that the Wee County can win the first Leinster Title since 1957. The future looks bright for Louth GAA.'
Meanwhile, Local Fianna Fáil Senator Alison Comyn described the development as 'a game changer for Gaelic Games in Louth' and confirmed she would be working closely with Minister for Sport Charlie McConalogue to secure essential funding under the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund.
"This is a fantastic opportunity to build on the rising success of the Louth football team and to give our players, supporters and young people a stadium they can call home. For too long, Louth has been without a proper county ground. Now we have a real opportunity to deliver a modern, fit-for-purpose stadium in Dundalk, a venue that will not only elevate games in the county but become a true hub for our community,' Senator Comyn said.
Comyn also stressed the broader value of the project. "As Louth continues to grow in population and prominence, we need infrastructure that reflects our ambition. A county ground isn't just about sport, it's about opportunity and belonging. This stadium will inspire future generations of players, bring families and fans together and give the county a focal point we can all be proud of.'
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