First Minister Michelle O’Neill has described a UK government decision not to fund the redevelopment of Casement Park in time for Euro 2028 as “deeply disappointing” and a missed opportunity.
A Friday evening letter from Secretary of State Hilary Benn and Culture, Media and Sport Secretary Lisa Nandy to Communities Minister Gordon Lyons confirmed the government would “regrettably” not fund the project in time for the major football tournament.
The letter said there was a “significant risk” the west Belfast stadium would not be built in time for the Euros, where it was due to host five games as part of a joint hosting by the UK and Ireland.
Ms O’Neill said to announce the decision on the same day as withdrawing City and Growth deal funding from Northern Ireland “smacks of cynicism” from the government.
“The decision not to proceed with Casement Park in time to host UEFA Euro 2028 is deeply disappointing and a missed opportunity not only for local sport, but for our economy,” the First Minister said.
“This was a unique opportunity to create jobs, boost tourism, and showcase our island’s sporting talent on the global stage.
“We will continue to work with the GAA, our local executive and the two governments to push this project forward and get these state-of-the-art facilities built and a first-class stadium for Gaelic games delivered.
“To make this announcement on the same day as pausing funding for the transformational City and Growth Deal for our towns and cities smacks of cynicism from the British Secretary of State.”
Communities Minister Lyons said he is “committed” to working with the GAA to see the redevelopment of the stadium, which received Executive approval in 2011.
Mr Lyons said: “I have been informed that it would not have been possible to build the stadium in time and that costs had escalated to over £400 million. Therefore the UK Government have determined this as not being value for money.
“Following this announcement, I will engage with the UK Government and other partners to see how Northern Ireland can still benefit from hosting the competition and ensure that there is a lasting legacy for football in Northern Ireland.
“The department remains committed to the 2011 agreement with the GAA for a GAA stadium and we will engage with them in due course.”
