Cullen puts foot down over extra funds for new stadium
Monday June 30 2008
Fionnan Sheahan Political Editor
SPORTS Minister Martin Cullen has told the IRFU and FAI that any added extras for the new Lansdowne Road won't be paid for by the Government.
The sporting bodies are currently considering additions to the stadium, including an underground car park.
The minister's officials have written to the two bodies behind the stadium development reiterating that the Govermment's contribution to the project is €191m.
The rest of the overall cost of €365m will be met by the rugby and football governing authorities.
Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism secretary general Con Haugh wrote to the IRFU and FAI seeking assurances on being financially able to meet their end of the bargain.
Capped
The letter pointed out the Government's contribution is capped at €191m and the rest of the funds must come from the two sporting bodies. "He has received those assurances to that effect from the IRFU and FAI," a spokesperson for the minister said.
The minister's spokesperson said the letter was a normal procedure in line with the prudent management of projects.
The IRFU and FAI are currently considering some "additional enhancements" to the Dublin stadium, including an underground car park.
But the Government won't be paying for any additions to the existing plans.
