Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I am very glad of this opportunity to bring this matter into the Chamber and address some of the grievances experienced by the communities and residents who live near Croke Park, particularly those who live within the cordon area. I am delighted the Minister is here because these issues touch on each aspect of his role, relating to the environment, local government and community. I distinguish between Croke Park, which is a corporate, profit-making entity, and the GAA. I totally support the great work the GAA does throughout the country, particularly with young people. However, over some time there have been very fractious relationships between the communities and Croke Park.

There are three types of issues. First, there are long-standing issues regarding events in Croke Park. They relate to access for people to and from their homes on match days, residents' fears as to whether there is an adequate evacuation plan in the event of an emergency, litter and anti-social behaviour. Second, Croke Park is suing members of the handball and community centre. As that is a legal matter, I will park it. Third, there is an issue with the concerts. I accept the business aspect of this and that small businesses such as hotels, bars and restaurants are delighted with an influx of 400,000 Garth Brooks fans who will descend on the area. However, there are major issues for the residents.

Some time ago an agreement was made between Croke Park and the residents committing to three concerts. I saw the agreement. Three concerts were arranged for May this year for a group called One Direction. Those concerts will interfere with the local and European elections. One of the polling stations is close to Croke Park, so people will be discommoded. As well as those three concerts, an American football match has been planned and residents have learned that there will be five concerts by Garth Brooks. Nobody objects to the fact that it is Garth Brooks, but to the fact that there are five concerts one after the other. The residents heard about it through the media. First there were to be two concerts, then three, four and five. A sixth concert could have been scheduled but for the outcry by people about this.

As well as the five concerts in a row, the set up and tear down of the equipment will take several days. It is ironic that people from Croke Park are coming on the radio and television saying they want to be good neighbours with the residents, and this is how they show it. There is no meaningful consultation with the residents and they had to find out about the concerts from radio and television. There are issues relating to the environment, community and local government.

There is also the issue of the licence, although I know this is a local government matter. Under what sort of system are tickets sold for a concert before a licence is granted, as it does not seem to make sense? This is not sour grapes on the part of people who live there and we should put ourselves in their position. Some people bought their houses in the area when Croke Park had a capacity of 45,000 or 50,000. They are now living beside a stadium with a capacity of 83,000 and although it is magnificent, it is a venue for concerts and other events. One must come to the conclusion that this is pure profit making and greed on behalf of the corporate entity of Croke Park.

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