A local soccer and gaelic fan has raised questions over the Irish Government’s pledge to invest in Antrim’s Casement Park ahead of the Euros in 2028.
Describing himself as “soccer and gaelic mad”, Johnny McManus who is originally from Newtownbutler works on the border and said the Irish government’s decision to pay towards Casement Park “doesn’t sit well” with him.
Speaking to the Joe Finnegan Show earlier, Mr McManus said he fears for the future of St Tiernach’s Park in Clones where, this morning, he saw people working at the spiritual home of the Ulster Final.
He questioned the sense in pouring taxpayers’ money into developing the plaza at St Tiernach’s while the government here is also directing money to a super stadium in the North.
The sports fan said there are plenty of soccer and gaelic clubs all over the south who could benefit from government investment.
“Dundalk is crying out for investment,” Johnny McManus said, “League of Ireland clubs are crying out for investment and can’t get it, but the Taoiseach can come out and say we’ll give money to Casement.
“I don’t think it’s fair to the volunteers around the country doing the hard work, giving the hours to youth while our own stadiums are in an absolutely dire state.
“And, we’re prepared to go and give a big financial package to a stadium in Belfast?” he asked, incredulous.
“Look after your own loaf and share it out if you have a bit extra, is what I say,” Mr McManus concluded.
