Emer Currie (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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31. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment for an update on the development of the national cricket stadium; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [64632/25]

Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
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In 2025, the revised National Development Plan reiterated the Government’s commitment to the continued development of the Sport Ireland Campus, including the National Cricket Centre (NCC).

The delivery of the NCC is in keeping with key Government priorities as set out the National Sports Policy 2018-2027 and my Department’s Statement of Strategy, which includes a high-level goal to continue to invest in new sports facilities, high performance athletes and the hosting of major events.

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that I approved the Pre-Tender Estimate on 13 November 2025, clearing the way for Sport Ireland to proceed to tender for phase 1 of the new National Cricket Stadium. Phase 1 will deliver the main field of play, 4,240 spectator seats, a high-performance centre and player and match officials building. The project will also include supporting infrastructure. Planning permission for Phase 1 of the project was granted by Fingal County Council on 11 November 2025.

Sport Ireland commenced the tender process on 14 November 2025 and a Final Business Case will be submitted for Ministerial approval following the completion the tender phase in early 2026. It is anticipated that construction will begin in the Spring of 2026.

This phasing approach to the overall project will ensure that an appropriate facility is in place in time for for the 2030 T20 World Cup, which Ireland will co-host,

The NCC will play a crucial role in addressing the need to provide world-class cricket facilities by providing playing, training and practice facilities to enable Ireland’s elite teams to compete at the highest international levels. It will also provide Cricket Ireland with the facilities to assist it in growing participation in cricket, and to enable Ireland to compete as a host nation for major cricket events.