Robbie Gallagher (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister of State, Deputy Brendan Griffin, and thank him sincerely for his attendance. As he is aware, many towns in the Border region suffered due to the Troubles in Northern Ireland and while, thankfully, that day is now very much in the past, it has left a devastation in many towns. For example, it is fair to say that, in County Monaghan, no town has suffered as much as Clones. Given its close proximity to the Border, Clones had many roads closed during the Troubles and, indeed, those that were open to those wishing to visit Clones were subject to military checkpoints and the delays that come with that. As a result, many businesses have suffered down through the years.

Thankfully, however, the people of Clones have kept the light on and they are fighting back, and they are a very resilient people. One of the shining lights, if I can use that expression, during all of the darks days has been St. Tiernach's Park in Clones, where the Ulster football final is held every year. The first final dates back to 1906.On that day, Monaghan overcame the Gaels of Antrim to win the Ulster final in Clones. Since then, thousands of people have visited the facility every July for what is one of the great sporting occasions of the year. It is fair to say that it has been recognised by commentators the length and breadth of the country that no venue can match what Clones has to offer on Ulster final day. The Minister of State is a good Kerryman so might argue with that. Most neutral observers would say that because of the narrow streets and warm welcome the people of Clones offer to all visitors from Ulster and further afield on that day, it is a unique occasion and one to be experienced. I know Kerry is quite busy at that time of year, but I would like to invite the Minister of State to this year's Ulster final so that he might experience this unique occasion for himself.

The Government has allocated €50 million to upgrade football stadiums throughout the country. I am making a case for St. Tiernach's Park in Clones. It is a fabulous facility capable of holding over 30,000 people, which is a sizeable amount. I understand it is the eighth largest stadium in the country. It needs refurbishment and the facilities it has to offer need a lift. I would like to make a strong case for the Minister of State to seriously consider St. Tiernach's Park for funding for an upgrade. It has the potential to become a regional centre.

Clones recently opened a new peace park which is a fantastic sporting facility that adds to the many things it has to offer. We now need some money from the Minister of State so that we can upgrade the facilities. It is not just that Clones will look after the people of Monaghan and Ulster, it can also cater for events that would attract individuals from across the entire country.