Maria Byrne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I seek the Leader's support in asking the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Ross, to intervene in the situation of Limerick FC. It was announced last Wednesday that the club is due to be liquidated. While Limerick FC has acquired many debts over the years, soccer is still the most played sport in Limerick. Limerick city is the third largest city in the country and not having a senior soccer team will have a detrimental effect on both schoolboy soccer and the local clubs. Many volunteers and families have been involved with Limerick FC and soccer in general over many years. There is a great knowledge bank in Limerick with the University of Limerick, Limerick Institute of Technology and all the people involved in sport. They should all be brought together to form a group to ensure the future of soccer for Limerick FC. People have had great enjoyment over the years in Thomond Park, Hogan Park and the Markets Field where the club is currently located. Markets Field is a category 2 UEFA stadium and holds up to 4,500 people. It is in the heart of a socially disadvantaged area and has brought great life to that area. There is also great involvement between the stadium and the community, education and business. I want the Minister to intervene by bringing all the relevant stakeholders together to put soccer back on the map until trust can be rebuilt between the business community sponsors and the people who have put so much effort into Limerick FC and soccer over many years.

I wish the staff of the Seanad and of the Houses generally and every Member a happy Christmas. Incidentally, I have written to the Minister, Deputy Ross, and I am seeking the Leader's support on this.