It seems likely that Pairc Uí Caoimh in Cork will bow out of service in its current status with an attractive double of Munster hurling and football finals.
This is despite reservations among some that the ground is not fit to do so.
Cork and Limerick have both won through to a repeat of last year’s Munster Hurling final which is scheduled to be played on July 13th. Last year’s match was played at the Gaelic Grounds in Limerick before an attendance of over 42,000.
The two counties are reported to have an agreement where they will alternate major matches between home and away venues.
The same agreement is in place between Cork and Kerry who are favourites to win through to the Munster Football final after next weekend’s semi finals. That final would also be down for settlement on the banks of the Lee on July 6th.
Concerns
Concerns have been expressed in Limerick and further afield as to whether Pairc Uí Caoimh is suitable ahead of its closure for redevelopment later in the summer.
A visit from Health and Safety officials today will determine any remedial works that need to be done to increase the maximum attendance but it will not get to the figure that was achieved last year, despite a demand that tickets that will be higher again.
Tipperary’s exit from the Munster Hurling Championship would in normal circumstances have meant Semple Stadium in Thurles, with a capacity of 53,000 would be the natural place to hold the Munster Final but that now appears unlikely.
Pairc Ui Caoimh will be redeveloped into a new 45,000 capacity stadium and centre of excellence at a cost of €70 million later in the year, with central Government pitching in €30 million towards the cost.
