Statement from Taoiseach Simon Harris on Casement Park

This weekend’s announcement that the British Government is not in a position to complete the development of Casement Park in time for Euro 2028 has been met with understandable disappointment.

The overriding factor is the doubt around Casement being ready in time for the tournament and its test events. I share the disappointment that Euro 2028 games will not be played at a redeveloped Casement, but we must not lose sight of the opportunity to have another top-class sporting facility in a city that thrives on sport.

I will meet with the GAA in the coming week, and I have already confirmed to Prime Minister Starmer that the €50 million the Irish government pledged to the project will remain in place, regardless of the decision around Euro 2028.

How to proceed is a matter for the Northern Ireland Executive and the British Government, and I will engage with the First and deputy First Ministers on how we can help.

It is essential the positive effects of Ireland and the UK co-hosting Euro 2028 is felt in all parts of these islands.

We will work closely with the UK and all stakeholders to achieve this.

ENDS