Sportsground Receives Extra Funding

Gerry Kelly said: “We have had extensive talks with Minister of State for Sport Michael Ring TD., about the redevelopment of the Sportsground and he has sanctioned this injection of funding to further enhance the grounds and facilities.

“We are delighted because this shows that Connacht are a valuable asset to the area not just in sporting terms but also to tourism.

“With the Heineken Cup coming here for the first time, we expect to see a large increase in visitors not only to Galway city but to the rest of the province.

“As fans watch Europe’s highest profile rugby competition across the world, it is a great opportunity for us to showcase the west of Ireland as an attractive destination.

“I’d like to pay huge thanks to Minister Ring and to our local Fine Gael TD, Brian Walsh, for their enthusiasm and hard work in sourcing this funding.”

The funds are in addition to monies already supplied by the IRFU and will go towards improving existing facilities and creating new structures to bring the Sportsground up to the same standard as the other provinces’ home venues.

The injection of additional capital will also ensure the comfort of supporters in what has been traditionally been an inhospitable stadium for visiting teams and fans alike.

“We will be using the funds, in addition to the capital supplied by the IRFU, to invest in the Sportsground to help make the venue as attractive as possible to our supporters,” added Kelly.

“Fans and Season Ticket holders are the lifeblood of every rugby club and we are no different, so we want to make the matchday experience here as entertaining and comfortable as possible.

“Minister Ring has been instrumental in sourcing this capital and we are confident that with the improvements we are making, there will be a sustainable club here drawing supporters and tourists to Connacht for many years to come.”

Related Links –

Connacht Excited About Redeveloped Sportsground

Connacht Making Strides Towards Brighter Future