Charlie O'Connor (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 716: To ask the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his dealings with South Dublin County Council in respect of the need for the completion of the Shamrock Rovers municipal stadium at Tallaght, Dublin 24; if his attention has been drawn to the concern of the local community that work will not progress; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2261/06]

John O'Donoghue (Kerry South, Fianna Fail)
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Since its decision to refuse further extension to planning on the site of the Tallaght stadium, my Department has been kept informed by South Dublin County Council of its ongoing efforts to regain ownership of the site. My Department has previously indicated that it is prepared to support South Dublin County Council in putting together a financial package which would ensure the completion of the stadium in Tallaght. However, such support was based on the plan to provide a soccer stadium for Tallaght that would serve as a viable long-term home for Shamrock Rovers Football Club. Given the significant funding likely to be required to complete the stadium, serious consideration must be given to the stadium accommodating two soccer clubs on a ground sharing basis, a concept recommended for Dublin clubs in the recent Genesis report on the Eircom League.

South Dublin County Council recently wrote to my Department seeking clarification on whether funding will be available on the basis of the council's recent decision to complete the stadium but subject to certain modifications to the pitch, stand and dressing rooms to facilitate other sports. The facility needs of other sports have been provided for and will continue be so under the sports capital programme under which more than €9.5 million has been allocated to clubs in the Tallaght area alone. However, there is a need for a modern modest size soccer stadium in Dublin, which this development in Tallaght would suitably meet when completed. Recent efforts to change the scope of the agreed approach to the proposed project is likely to impact on the future capacity and the total cost of the stadium. Accordingly, I have advised South Dublin County Council that funding will not be available on the basis of council's current proposals for the completion of the stadium.