Harney says GAA funding is unacceptable

The Tánaiste, Mary Harney, today said it would be unacceptable to allocate the GAA substantial funds while the organisation refuses…

The Tánaiste, Mary Harney, today said it would be unacceptable to allocate the GAA substantial funds while the organisation refuses to allow other sporting bodies to use its facilities.

Speaking during a visit to Donegal, the Tánaiste's comments follow the narrow decision at the GAA's Annual Congress last weekend to deny access to Croke Park for other sports.

The repeal of Rule 42 which prohibits the playing of any other sports in the GAA’s landmark stadium was defeated by a very slender margin at the Congress.

Last Friday, the Government announced its intention to contribute £60 million towards the re-development of the Dublin stadium. It later emerged the decision has not yet received Cabinet approved.