Casement upgrade proposed by GAA
Ulster GAA bosses are proposing that Casement Park should be upgraded to become the premier gaelic games venue in the province with a 40,000 capacity.
Following Sports Minister Gregory Campbell's decision to abandon the Maze project, he asked the three main sporting bodies to submit their ideas.
The GAA gave its proposals to the minister earlier this week.
The ball is now in the court of government as public money would be required to upgrade Casement.
Last month, the sports minister confirmed the widespread speculation that he had decided not to proceed with the Maze Stadium project.
Mr Campbell said the plan was not value for money and did not have political consensus.
The minister added that he intended to help the Irish Football Association, Ulster Rugby and the GAA to develop solutions to their stadia needs and the three sporting bodies were all asked to come up with proposals.
Ulster GAA bosses have moved quickly to submit their proposals although government's reaction remains to be seen.
Earlier this week, a business consortium, Eastonville Traders Ltd, proposed the building of a new stadium for football and rugby in the Sydenham area of east Belfast.
It said the arena would have a 20,000-capacity and would be built on a 90-acre site beside the Danny Blanchflower Stadium, but would not host GAA fixtures.
However, Ulster Rugby said it is not committed "in any way" to the proposed new stadium in east Belfast.
Ulster Rugby added that the lack of "any appropriate business case" meant it does not form part of its plans to develop stadia for the sport.
The IFA said it would welcome any proposals "provided the finances stack up".
Story from BBC SPORT:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/sport1/hi/northern_ireland/gaelic_games/7968494.stm
Published: 2009/03/27 15:28:21 GMT
© BBC MMIX
Improve Casement, get some loot from Gregory. Keep Clones and improve it a bit for games involving combinations of teams far from Belfast. Problem solved.
As an Antrim man, Belfast born,(though exiled in the West) this is good news :) Though I have to admit not everyone might agree
I don't
Smart lad ;) However I've a terrible grudge against Casement Park, so not that many might agree with me.
I think some objections, including Ziggy's, might be overcome if Casement came under new Ulster council management. This would mean proper stewarding and not a mates club who think they are running a paramilitary demonstration.
Whilst i would obviously prefer to see Clones maintained as the province's main ground, this is clearly a better option than building a new stadium.
However, i feel the Ulster Council should have proposed a 25-30,000 capacity for Casement and concentrate on making the ground very high-spec at that capacity - i.e. go for a fully enclosed stadium with full modern facilities, rather than just trying to increase capacity to a level that might be justified once a year. Even Clones is under-used as it stands. Ulster doesn't need another big massive stadium - it just needs better quality.
A much better option than the waste of money new stadium plan. There are enough grounds in Ulster. There may be an argument for upgrading one but to be honest i'm not so sure there is.
QuoteTake the money go to the Maze where the land would be for free and bring in the rugby people.
TYP there aren't any stadiums in Ireland away from a town. I really don't think one would be desirable.
Quote from: Take Your Points on March 27, 2009, 07:37:07 PM
Casement as a 40,000 stadium is nonsense. Poor access, no parking and smack in the middle of a residental area.
Take the money go to the Maze where the land would be for free and bring in the rugby people.
Casement is sentiment over practicality.
With you and Maguire. I think a gaa/rugby share would be more palatable for both camps than including Fearon's mates and Casement just isn't the solution. It's a bloody nightmare now at a sparsely attended hurling match never mind an Ulster football final! A 25-30k capacity stadium with plenty of parking, amenities, access for all etc is the preferable option if the money can be got.
Quote from: Take Your Points on March 27, 2009, 07:37:07 PM
Casement as a 40,000 stadium is nonsense. Poor access, no parking and smack in the middle of a residental area.
Take the money go to the Maze where the land would be for free and bring in the rugby people.
Casement is sentiment over practicality.
Was what I was thinking.
8 games in last yrs ulster championship, how many had a capacity crowd at it?
Quote from: armaghniac on March 27, 2009, 05:43:25 PM
I think some objections, including Ziggy's, might be overcome if Casement came under new Ulster council management. This would mean proper stewarding and not a mates club who think they are running a paramilitary demonstration.
Would need to be a complete clean out.
However I'm inclined to agree with what TYP is suggesting. Getting Ulster Rugby involved and go to the Maze. Let the IFA do what they want.
Build a stadium we can be proud of.
No matter what people say about Casement - Its just in a sh1t location.
No parking, Residents don't want it, Only one road in, Chaos on matchdays and that won't change, and no room to expand.
Quote from: mylestheslasher on March 27, 2009, 08:57:05 PM
8 games in last yrs ulster championship, how many had a capacity crowd at it?
Ulster final was full and replay couldnt have been far of it. Think there was 30,000 + at Armagh Down. Capacity crowd for both Tyrone Down games. 25k at Armagh Cavan. If they're doing it I hope they turn it into a top class stadium. 35k-40k would mean it would be big enough for all matches.
Quote from: Take Your Points on March 27, 2009, 09:04:08 PM
That is a first for us Donagh.
Was thinking that as well.
It's not as if that land is going to be put to any other use. It's a brownfield site in the gift of OFMDFM (not the Sports Minister) to do with as they please. The Royal Ulster Agricultural Society are going to move out to it and develop their portion regardless so I don't see why we can't run with a scaled down version of the original project.Taking into consideration the free land, the goodwill of the relationship with IRFU built up over the past few years, our portion of the ring-fenced capital, some expertise and cash from Central Council and we're up and running. I honestly don't see why not, and a big shiny new 40k stadium by the side of the M1 would be a great statement of intent by the Association.
Quote from: Tyrone Dreamer on March 27, 2009, 09:45:19 PM
Quote from: mylestheslasher on March 27, 2009, 08:57:05 PM
8 games in last yrs ulster championship, how many had a capacity crowd at it?
Ulster final was full and replay couldnt have been far of it. Think there was 30,000 + at Armagh Down. Capacity crowd for both Tyrone Down games. 25k at Armagh Cavan. If they're doing it I hope they turn it into a top class stadium. 35k-40k would mean it would be big enough for all matches.
I question your figures there. No way was there 25k at Cavan v Armagh anyway. But lets say your right. When will Omagh, Breffni, Clones, Newry etc see any sort of action when the new stadium is built. These grounds have all been recently done up at much expense, expense shared by ordinary members and local business to be discarded on the scrap heap as some eejits wet dream gets built. Smacks of the Bertie Bowl to me.
Quote from: mylestheslasher on March 27, 2009, 10:46:06 PM
I question your figures there. No way was there 25k at Cavan v Armagh anyway. But lets say your right. When will Omagh, Breffni, Clones, Newry etc see any sort of action when the new stadium is built. These grounds have all been recently done up at much expense, expense shared by ordinary members and local business to be discarded on the scrap heap as some eejits wet dream gets built. Smacks of the Bertie Bowl to me.
Omagh gets healthy enough crowds at the moment, the others will do the same when their counties gain a bit of success. Swings and roundabouts.
The official attendance at Cavan v Armagh last year was 22,657. These was 28K in 2004 when Cavan played Armagh in Clones. The point is not the this stadium is going to lead to tumbleweed in other stadia, but rather that not all games will be played in this mega stadium and Esler, Healy etc will continue to be used. So there will only be a handful of games gby at issue. Joining with rugby is great, but the probability is that rugger and soccer will just used one stadium with a smaller pitch. The number of games would be even less at a Maze location, but it might get some concerts, I suppose.
Delighted to hear about the possible upgrading of Casement Park to an all-seater stadium which can accommodate really big games...this is definitely the way to go. It would be a much more comfortable and pleasant experience going to a newly developed Casement Park on Ulster Final Day than Clones, which has had its big day.
I was never that excited about the prospect of having to share a stadium with the rugby and soccer either. At least now, we won't have anti-GAA forces telling us when we can play our games, what to call the stadium, and how best to show respect to other traditions.
This seems the best plan, upgrade Casement with emphasis on better, rather than more accommodation. Clones, the spiritual home of Ulster GAA, can then be expanded to 40000 capacity or so with a new stand at the bottom goal and a bit of tidying up.
Moving the county boundary to put Clones in the North seems complicated and it would be a very big stand that would be in Fermanagh.
Wouldn't it be brilliant if we moved Croke Pk to somewhere in the middle of Kildare with a enormous car park round it and a dual carriageway right to the front door??
Quote from: armaghniac on March 27, 2009, 11:07:43 PM
The number of games would be even less at a Maze location, but it might get some concerts, I suppose.
A GAA-only stadium in NI will
not get concerts. Promoters will not use it for the same reason they wouldn't use Windsor Park (even if it was a decent stadium).
Quote from: Take Your Points on March 28, 2009, 12:36:45 PM
We need to have a showpiece stadium in the North which has easy access, dare I suggest access by public transport. Imagine a stadium at the Maze with bus and train access with supporters travelling from Newry, Portadown, Lurgan, Belfast all by train. Bus parks to encourage companies to lay on buses which will collect you from a car park in your local town and dropping you outside the stadium, not unlike the buses in Mountjoy Square for Croke Park.
I'm not convined that public transport would provide much (if any) extra pulling power. People like their cars. And you don't need bus parks to encourage companies to start up routes from your home town - that could be done now at existing grounds if it is a viable idea in the first place. Also, the rail network is crap and serves very little of the province - especially the GAA strongholds.
Quote from: Take Your Points on March 28, 2009, 12:36:45 PM
Such a stadium could become the centerpiece for the championship with all 8 games being played in a series of weekends on the same ground with the ability to open and close sections of the ground depending on the size of ground.
What a bloody awful idea. That's exactly the argument
against a new ground. That would be the end of every other ground in the province for everything except a few poorly attended league games.
This is the first detail I've seen on this.
I don't know where the £100M figure has come from.
The aerial photo perfectly highlights the problem with Casement - its hemmed in on three sides.
Just where are they meant to squeeze a 40k stadium into that site?
Unless they get their hands on some of the hosues, they'd be better doing what soccer is doing and get a free site off Belfast City Council.
Musgrave Park would be ideal.
http://www.belfastmedia.com/home_article.php?ID=1642
(http://www.belfastmedia.com/exchange/imgserver.php?file=../format/images/belfastmedia/0new/2009/news/mar/casement310309.jpg&imgtype=jpeg&jpegquality=85&cache=0&resample=1&output=1&c_reg=on&w_reg=390&h_reg=210&enlarge=on&=GET)
Exciting plans for Casement
Andersonstown News Monday 31st of March 2009
by Aine McEntee
Casement Park could become a 40,000 all-seater stadium if plans to upgrade the West Belfast venue get the go ahead.
The chairman of Antrim GAA County Board, John McSparran, said draft plans submitted to Sports Minister Gregory Campbell last week would make Casement a 40,000-seater stadium capable of hosting high-profile games including Ulster finals normally held south of the border in Clones or at Croke Park. It will also complement other rejuvenation proposals for West Belfast.
"I have to say I'm delighted Casement Park has been selected for this by the Ulster Council," John said.
"This is a major coup for Antrim, Belfast and West Belfast and the positives of this must be highlighted."
Last month Gregory Campbell confirmed long-running speculation that the proposal to site a multi-purpose sports stadium at Long Kesh was no longer a runner.
At the end of January he said the project would not represent value for money and would cause community divisions.
He added that he wanted to help GAA, rugby and soccer who were going to be the main stakeholders in any project to develop solutions to their stadium needs.
John McSparran said government support, alongside local business interest, was crucial for the plan to succeed.
"Antrim as a county will have to make the financial commitment necessary for Casement to be developed," he said.
"The extent of that is unpredictable, but it will be considerable.
"It is important to say now to local business people to get behind us. We will be prepared to show our commitment and keep up our side of the bargain, but it is now time to stand up and be counted on this.
"We can't allow a situation where simply because we don't have the willingness to make the financial commitment this opportunity passes us by."
GAA bosses decided upon West Belfast and Casement Park rather than a green-field site in mid-Ulster specifically for its geographical location in Ireland's second city and its closeness to road networks.
It is understood that the overall project, which includes car-parking zones, could cost in the region of £100 million.
West Belfast MP Gerry Adams has lso welcomed the news.
"A state-of-the-art 40,000-plus seat stadium is required to meet the strategic needs of the GAA in Ulster," he said. "This can best be accommodated at Casement, subject of course to the rights of local people, particularly in the Owenvarragh area. Such a huge investment would be good for Belfast, Ireland's second largest city. It would also have significant and positive sporting cultural and commercial benefits for everyone in the North."
The Casement Park project comes just day after the Department for Social Development revealed details of the Andersonstown Gateway Project, which among other things would see an 'expo centre' built on the old Andersonstown barracks site and a new road-bridge linking Kennedy Way and Boucher Road.
Quote from: snatter on April 01, 2009, 08:47:09 PM
The aerial photo perfectly highlights the problem with Casement - its hemmed in on three sides.
Just where are they meant to squeeze a 40k stadium into that site?
On all 4 really. There's no room for expansion - it would take a good architect to sort it out, given the need for backroom facilities on top of the 40,000. I'd also imagine that given the proximity of houses, there could wee be restrictions on height and any roof. Then again, it's not really in any worse position in this respect than Croke Park.
Put a quarter of the money into upgarding one of the grounds we have, ideally Clones for me anyway. Always find Casement a characterless, dull place and it makes for a dreadful day out really.
Use the other 75 million for a host of full-time GAA coaches in the Belfast area and possibly new playing fields in the city for a huge number of kids who are forced to play on soccer/rugby pitches.
Belfast needs huge investment from the GAA but not like this.
The pic of the plans in the Irish News is interesting, looks like one tier all the way around and not really longer or wider than the current terracing, God knows how they would go about it, lowering the level even more than it currently is maybe?
I wouldn't mind it too much provided they found some way of sorting out parking and transport, but that seems near impossible so the best of luck to them.
Build a big car park at Long Kesh and run trains/buses to Casement. Keep everyone happy.
Do any of the top stadiums in ulster currently have good access and/or car parking facilities?
Quote from: stiffler on April 02, 2009, 09:42:00 PM
Do any of the top stadiums in ulster currently have good access and/or car parking facilities?
I doubt any of the top stadiums in Ireland have, never mind Ulster.
Interesting take on it all from Sean McGettigan in today's paper. He says that "Casement will struggle to ever take over from Clones as Ulster's cultural epicentre". He seemed to indicate that only Down and Derry (and presumably Antrim) would be in favour of Casement and that the other counties would continue to opt for games in Clones.
Funny too that he seems to point to the idea of a quick post-match getaway as a negative - says that Casement basically has no environment or social aspect and that the hanging around in Clones is all part of the occasion. I suppose it's all down to what people go for.
I really dont like Casement, bad atmosphere, hostile locals, no parking.....
I like going to the different grounds - Newry, Omagh and Enniskillen are alwas a good day out. Celtic Park is even worse than Casement.
QuoteI wouldn't mind it too much provided they found some way of sorting out parking and transport, but that seems near impossible
The plans in the Irish News don't show the car parks, but the ones in Gaelic life show a carpark on the other side of the motorway with a bridge linking over to Casement.
I think the spot on the other side of the motorway has some existing GAA pitches on it? is this council land or a GAA club?
Have to say that the 'day out' in Clones is a much better experience, but maybe if this goes ahead they'll put more effort into making Casement more enjoyable, more bars, entertainment on the street, l hector leading a mexican wave etc
100 million is crazy. Put 3 milliion into each county board for elite county facitilities ie Garvaghy = 27 million to give third pitch grants and floodlighting of 150 000 each to 300 clubs accross Ulster = 45 million. leaves 28 million cash to develop a decend belfast stadium along with a decent business plan that pays off.
The GAAs idea of promotion at the moment is from the top down not the bottom up. Which will have more effect - improved additional community facilities based on need or Casement 100 mill white elephant based on vanity.
Quote from: rrhf on April 03, 2009, 10:25:23 AM
100 million is crazy. Put 3 million into each county board for elite county facilities ie Garvaghy = 27 million to give third pitch grants and floodlighting of 150 000 each to 300 clubs across Ulster = 45 million. leaves 28 million cash to develop a decend belfast stadium along with a decent business plan that pays off.
The GAAs idea of promotion at the moment is from the top down not the bottom up. Which will have more effect - improved additional community facilities based on need or Casement 100 mill white elephant based on vanity.
Yep. So many better ways to use £100 million. Too many of the top lads in the Ulster Council want their own wee Bertie Bowl I fear, maybe one or two will get a stand named after them or something :-\
Quote from: rrhf on April 03, 2009, 10:25:23 AM
to give third pitch grants and floodlighting of 150 000 each to 300 clubs accross Ulster = 45 million.
There is still plenty of clubs with only one pitch and even it may not be of the highest standard.
I think there is a bit of oneupmanship here, get the biggest stadium in Belfast, regardless of whether anyone will use it or not. I still favour making Casement a high class venue with a smaller largely seated capacity, modestly extending Clones to a 40,000 capacity and being willing to use Croke Pk the odd time.
Listen if theres 1oo mill to spend I want some of it at my club which serves 300 kids every week and not 60 adults 10 times a year. How much money could the GAA be reinvesting in Land pitches and facilities now prices are dropping.
The 100 mill isn't the Ulster GAA's money. It's our rightful share of the spoils from the failed Maze/Long Kesh. We'll only get the money to redevelop a stadium or build a new one. This talk of feeding the money down to County grounds and Club grounds is a non running. So if we can get 100 mill off the Stormont to redevelop Casement Park, I say grab the money with both hands and show the IFA we didn't need them!
Quote from: armaghniac on April 03, 2009, 04:44:04 PM
I think there is a bit of oneupmanship here, get the biggest stadium in Belfast, regardless of whether anyone will use it or not. I still favour making Casement a high class venue with a smaller largely seated capacity, modestly extending Clones to a 40,000 capacity and being willing to use Croke Pk the odd time.
Agreed - there's definitely an element of 'ego' in building a stadium this size at Casement. The irony is that an empty Casement Park on the TV in a couple of years could make the GAA look as stupid as Irish League soccer does at the minute. Better to have a smaller stadium filled to capacity that a massive stadium with tumbleweed blowing around the place.
Also, are Antrim going to move out of Casement? Antrim footballers attracted 2,000 people to all 4 home league matches this year - just 250 to the game v Clare. Could you justify opening a new modern stadium for the night for a crowd of that size?
Quote from: rrhf on April 03, 2009, 04:50:56 PM
Listen if theres 1oo mill to spend I want some of it at my club which serves 300 kids every week and not 60 adults 10 times a year. How much money could the GAA be reinvesting in Land pitches and facilities now prices are dropping.
A slightly disingenuous comparison - the new stadium would be to serve spectator demands as much, if not more, than players.
Quote from: ziggysego on April 03, 2009, 04:57:48 PM
The 100 mill isn't the Ulster GAA's money. It's our rightful share of the spoils from the failed Maze/Long Kesh. We'll only get the money to redevelop a stadium or build a new one. This talk of feeding the money down to County grounds and Club grounds is a non running. So if we can get 100 mill off the Stormont to redevelop Casement Park, I say grab the money with both hands and show the IFA we didn't need them!
Is it limited to one stadium though? Or could it be allocated to a capital development
programme (for a number of county grounds) rather than one project?
Soccer and Rugby are in a different boat in that they'd both be building a stadium essentially for only one team.
My reckoning one Stadium Maguire. Anyway there's no chance Campbell would give money to Clones.
You mean its not costing the GAA anyting. My understanding was that it would ciost the GAA 60 mill and they would be grant aided 40??
How much did it take to build the new stand in Healy Park?
How about building something similair
to replace the Gerry Authur and the stands behind the two goals in Clones
Likewise in Casement, a similar stand to replace the existing stand and behind the two goals
Another one in Omagh at the opposite side.
Cover the current cost at Celtic Park and the Atheltic Grounds.
What is left (should be at least 50m) goes to each club (and county board) for development purposes if they can show how it will be used.
Quote from: ziggysego on April 03, 2009, 05:04:24 PM
My reckoning one Stadium Maguire. Anyway there's no chance Campbell would give money to Clones.
Re Clones, I wouldn't expect him to - and i don't mean that because he's a very bitter DUP man - even a Nationalist politician wouldn't be able to, from a legal perspective.
QuoteThis talk of feeding the money down to County grounds and Club grounds is a non running.
If Gregory is distributing dosh to IFA clubs then some distribution of moeny to the county grounds for safety upgrades is warrented.
He can give money to Clones just as Donegal council could co fund a swimming pool in Strabane (say) on the basis that people from Donegal could use it. But in practical terms a 6 county venture is the way forward, there might not be all that much money anyway , public finances may have to be devoted to essential things like hospitals or schools in the future rather than things that it is nice to have.
Basically the GAA can name their price with this, but it needs to be done quickly. The money is ring-fenced by the OFMDFM, so it can't be released to Campbell without the approval of McGuinness. At the same time we all know how much Campbell hates the GAA and will try his best to give them as little as possible. From what I understand the money will be released to Campbell's department once he's went to the Executive with proposals to how it will be spent.
However it will be a one time offer i.e. there needs to be firm proposals on the table so the money can be divvied up quickly. So from the GAA's point of view we can't propose an application for funding for a capital development programme because (i) that type of thing should come from a separate pot of money in that Department (and we'll be doing ourselves out of money there); and (ii) nobody trusts Campbell not to pull the plug on the money after a year or two.
As I remember there's £260 million to be spent so the GAA has to go for a grant of one big capital development project to maximise the share they'll get from the money available. Peter Quinn and the Croker architect are on board with this, so I'd be pretty confident it's all in safe hands.
It won't do our games any harm to have 100k cars passing by our shiny new 40k seater stadium every day either, plus having it close to the city opens up the potential for extra revenue with conferences and concerts – given that Maguire's point about us not being able to do this if we went it alone at Maze was very valid. Casement is only a stones throw from the motorway and is the fringes of WB really, so could have serious potential for attracting more business and investment to the area.
Quote from: Donagh on April 03, 2009, 10:16:53 PM
It won't do our games any harm to have 100k cars passing by our shiny new 40k seater stadium every day either, plus having it close to the city opens up the potential for extra revenue with conferences and concerts – given that Maguire's point about us not being able to do this if we went it alone at Maze was very valid. Casement is only a stones throw from the motorway and is the fringes of WB really, so could have serious potential for attracting more business and investment to the area.
Again, I still don't see a GAA ground (especially in Casement's location) getting concerts that would attract 30/40,000. Promoters won't run the risk of 'alienating' people who wouldn't go near a GAA ground or West Belfast. That's the unfortunate truth.
As for conferences, would there be even room for such facilities on that site?
Quote from: ziggysego on April 03, 2009, 04:57:48 PM
The 100 mill isn't the Ulster GAA's money. It's our rightful share of the spoils from the failed Maze/Long Kesh. We'll only get the money to redevelop a stadium or build a new one. This talk of feeding the money down to County grounds and Club grounds is a non running. So if we can get 100 mill off the Stormont to redevelop Casement Park, I say grab the money with both hands and show the IFA we didn't need them!
And if you did the responsible thing and said, "thanks but we don't need a new stadium in Ulster" that money could remain in government coffers to fund Hospitals, schools etc. I'm not one to quote Michael McDowell but I remember when Bertie was hell bent on developing the Bertie Bowl McDowell compared him to Romanian Dictator Nicolae Ceausescu, there is a bit of that going on here at too. Is part of this just showing off maybe to the soccer & rugby groups or maybe if them ones get money to build a stadium we want the same too! Its childish, pointless and a waste of your (i.e. Taxpayers) money. Ulster does not need a new stadium and no one on this board has shown me a justification or return on investment for a new stadium.
The money for the Maze / Long Kesh Stadium Project was money coming from the British Government, which didn't come out of the existing Stormont coffers. I'm assuming that still stands.
Quote from: ziggysego on April 04, 2009, 11:54:19 AM
The money for the Maze / Long Kesh Stadium Project was money coming from the British Government, which didn't come out of the existing Stormont coffers. I'm assuming that still stands.
You're right Ziggy. It was a Tony Blair vanity project. If we don't get the money it goes back to the Brits to allow them to build maybe a quarter of a submarine.
Total bullshit idea.
Casement is a hole. It always will be.
We don't NEED another big stadium to sit empty for 360 odd days of the year.
Take the money, and reinvest it in all the counties. Better facilities for schools and clubs to train youngsters will benefit the GAA more than another 'millenium dome'.
Going off at a tangent:
We especially don't need an all-seater stadium. We aren't a bunch of f**king soccer fans that cannot handle standing. I know I always prefer to stand at a game than sit. Many others may feel the same.
Quote from: Donagh on April 04, 2009, 12:34:26 PM
Quote from: ziggysego on April 04, 2009, 11:54:19 AM
The money for the Maze / Long Kesh Stadium Project was money coming from the British Government, which didn't come out of the existing Stormont coffers. I'm assuming that still stands.
You're right Ziggy. It was a Tony Blair vanity project. If we don't get the money it goes back to the Brits to allow them to build maybe a quarter of a submarine.
Which is now some Ulster GAA peoples vanity project! Where the justification and ROI and isn't most of the money floating around storment from the British government coffers. Your simply wasting your own money on a folly.
Quote from: mylestheslasher on April 04, 2009, 10:18:57 PM
Which is now some Ulster GAA peoples vanity project! Where the justification and ROI and isn't most of the money floating around storment from the British government coffers. Your simply wasting your own money on a folly.
No, the money is not floating around Stormont, it is ring-fenced and at present can only be spent on a new stadium at the Long Kesh and Maze sites. It's still possible for the Brits to take their money back again as the multi sports stadium has fallen through. At present it is not within the gift of anyone here to do something with that money, but the Executive will have to agree on a plan and then go and ask the Brits to give it to us anyway.
Quote from: hardstation on April 04, 2009, 11:35:47 PM
Can we not just have a couple of bizarres to get the money up? Sean McGettigan swears by them.
Wonder how much this boy costs:
(http://photos.armondavanes.com/Mummy%20Museum%20-%20Niavaran%20(2003)/Bizarre/slides/Bizarre003.jpg)
Quote from: Donagh on April 04, 2009, 11:34:10 PM
Quote from: mylestheslasher on April 04, 2009, 10:18:57 PM
Which is now some Ulster GAA peoples vanity project! Where the justification and ROI and isn't most of the money floating around storment from the British government coffers. Your simply wasting your own money on a folly.
No, the money is not floating around Stormont, it is ring-fenced and at present can only be spent on a new stadium at the Long Kesh and Maze sites. It's still possible for the Brits to take their money back again as the multi sports stadium has fallen through. At present it is not within the gift of anyone here to do something with that money, but the Executive will have to agree on a plan and then go and ask the Brits to give it to us anyway.
And is it outside the capability of the executive to agree on a sensible project to use the money for. A new road, a new hospital, new schools etc and go back to the brits and ask the money to be diverted? Of course it is if a bit of maturity and if ye actually thought of what was good for the people. Probably not as there is too much childishness, vanity and "them ones" in the thinking of those holding political office in the North. As a matter of interest what was SF position on the Bertie Bowl.
Quote from: mylestheslasher on April 05, 2009, 09:16:33 AM
And is it outside the capability of the executive to agree on a sensible project to use the money for. A new road, a new hospital, new schools etc and go back to the brits and ask the money to be diverted? Of course it is if a bit of maturity and if ye actually thought of what was good for the people. Probably not as there is too much childishness, vanity and "them ones" in the thinking of those holding political office in the North. As a matter of interest what was SF position on the Bertie Bowl.
Myles, I'm not sure why you are finding this so difficult to understand. The money is ring-fenced by the Brits for capital development of the stadium i.e. not to be used for anything else. As far as I know, none of the Parties have a policy or stance on what shape it should take or where it should be built. The driving forces are the three sports bodies not the Parties.
I was a Sinn Fein member and activist during the Bertie Bowl debacle. The party were against it then. I have since moved on but I am really interested to know what the Sinn Fein position is on this new stadium for a start. 2nd question, do you believe 100m (ring fenced or not) is well spent money on a new all seater GAA stadium in the north. I presume you can provide me with a justificatinon or a Return on Investment spreadsheet if you are in favour.
(http://www.propublishingservices.com/images/j0341909.jpg)
Quote from: mylestheslasher on April 05, 2009, 08:48:57 PM
I was a Sinn Fein member and activist during the Bertie Bowl debacle. The party were against it then. I have since moved on but I am really interested to know what the Sinn Fein position is on this new stadium for a start. 2nd question, do you believe 100m (ring fenced or not) is well spent money on a new all seater GAA stadium in the north. I presume you can provide me with a justificatinon or a Return on Investment spreadsheet if you are in favour.
SF do not have a position on it as far as I know so long as the division of the money is equitable over the three sports.
If the GAA are to be given £100 million they wouldn't otherwise get, yes I'm all for it. Why should I justify my position? I'm a member of the GAA, my justification is purely selfish - money for nothing. This is Brit money we wouldn't be getting otherwise, so what? Bleed the feckers dry for all I care, they owe us.
I think you aren't getting the 'ring-fenced' bit yet. The cash given to run the north is granted under the Barnett Formula as it is also done with Scotland and Wales. The money for the stadium is additional money that has been allocated outside that. How do you think it would go down in Scotland and Wales if the Irish were to be given additional money to run their government and public services, especially when they think the Irish are already getting more than their fair share?
I do "get" what you are saying but let me put this another way. IF the GAA had to find the 100m themselves would you support the building of another stadium in Ulster. If you do then you are saying that there is a need for a all seater stadium and for me there is absolutley no need for one.
Why you going on about ifs? There is on ifs? Ifs have no relevant to the debate.
Quote from: ziggysego on April 06, 2009, 09:55:34 AM
Why you going on about ifs? There is on ifs? Ifs have no relevant to the debate.
Any chance you could type in English so I can understand. The people who represent Ulster Gaels seem hell bent on a new stadium. A large number of people are in favour here without giving one shred of evidence that the project is viable. This is a vanity project that is all about getting one up of the soccer or rugby crowd. Show me in black and white why its not and I'll accept that my argument is wrong. Show me some justification. Show me how this ground is viable without making the existing grounds in Ulster non-viable. Anyone?
Quote from: mylestheslasher on April 06, 2009, 10:57:30 AM
Any chance you could type in English so I can understand. The people who represent Ulster Gaels seem hell bent on a new stadium. A large number of people are in favour here without giving one shred of evidence that the project is viable. This is a vanity project that is all about getting one up of the soccer or rugby crowd. Show me in black and white why its not and I'll accept that my argument is wrong. Show me some justification. Show me how this ground is viable without making the existing grounds in Ulster non-viable. Anyone?
Hold on here a minute Myles, it's only a few posts ago you were telling us that the Assembly should use the money to build a new hospital without stopping to consider if we needed a new hospital or without knowing that the Assembly couldn't spend the money on a new hospital. Central Council first identified the need for a 40k stadium in 2001 and this has been the aim of the Ulster Council ever since. If you want justification for this position then you only need to look at the games which have had to be moved to Croke Park since that time.
If we are going to get the money for a new stadium, no problem take it but it has to be fully thought out and the correct location selected.
Is Casement that place, I think not.
The cost may be paid for upfront but will we end up with a stadium that is full twice a year? Realistically at present the only game in Ulster that will fill that stadium is an Ulster game with Tyrone and Armagh, this may not last forever. I don't ever recall having trouble getting tickets for an Ulster final in Clones in the past with a lower capacity.
What will be the annual maintainence of such a stadium? Who will be responsible for such costs? Will we end up with a situation like Clones now where the Ulster board don't want it and the Monaghan County Board don't want it cost of the cost of running it.
Location? Parking in Casement is already troublesome, will the influx of extra people to game's make it even more troublesome? Is the positioning right? Should be more central in the province?
I think that we will be left with a big empty stadium most of the time.
A tidier, modern ground with reduced capacity would fit the bill better.
Quote from: Donagh on April 06, 2009, 11:05:38 AM
Quote from: mylestheslasher on April 06, 2009, 10:57:30 AM
Any chance you could type in English so I can understand. The people who represent Ulster Gaels seem hell bent on a new stadium. A large number of people are in favour here without giving one shred of evidence that the project is viable. This is a vanity project that is all about getting one up of the soccer or rugby crowd. Show me in black and white why its not and I'll accept that my argument is wrong. Show me some justification. Show me how this ground is viable without making the existing grounds in Ulster non-viable. Anyone?
Hold on here a minute Myles, it's only a few posts ago you were telling us that the Assembly should use the money to build a new hospital without stopping to consider if we needed a new hospital or without knowing that the Assembly couldn't spend the money on a new hospital. Central Council first identified the need for a 40k stadium in 2001 and this has been the aim of the Ulster Council ever since. If you want justification for this position then you only need to look at the games which have had to be moved to Croke Park since that time.
I suggested that the money could be used for another purpose
such as a hospital, road etc. It is up to those proposing this venture to prove that it is viable. Not for others to show it is non viable. I presume then that you have not had a chance to see the facts & figures then how can you whole heartedly back the project?
Quote from: Donagh on April 06, 2009, 11:05:38 AM
Central Council first identified the need for a 40k stadium in 2001 and this has been the aim of the Ulster Council ever since. If you want justification for this position then you only need to look at the games which have had to be moved to Croke Park since that time.
Since 2001, I think it is 4 games that have been moved to Croke Park - three Ulster Finals and an Ulster Final replay.
The attendance at the replay (in 2005) was so small it could have been held in Clones (or Casement) with current capacity constraints. The attendance at the others would suggest that even a 45,000 capacity stadium would not be enough to satisfy demands for such instances where there is exceptional demand.
So we have actually had to move 3 games to Croke Park in the last 7/8 years (since 2001). Hardly justifies the need for a massive new stadium - especially one which still won't be big enough for those games that were moved in the past.
Quote from: Maguire01 on April 06, 2009, 01:40:12 PM
Since 2001, I think it is 4 games that have been moved to Croke Park - three Ulster Finals and an Ulster Final replay.
The attendance at the replay (in 2005) was so small it could have been held in Clones (or Casement) with current capacity constraints. The attendance at the others would suggest that even a 45,000 capacity stadium would not be enough to satisfy demands for such instances where there is exceptional demand.
So we have actually had to move 3 games to Croke Park in the last 7/8 years (since 2001). Hardly justifies the need for a massive new stadium - especially one which still won't be big enough for those games that were moved in the past.
But it says there has been a need in the recent past. The Ulster Council has recently published it's next strategic plan where it's looking to increase participation and broaden it's appeal to other sections of the community i.e. plan for the future. A new stadium is part of that planning and as we saw with Croke Park, many people will come to a new stadium for the 'event' as much as anything else. I have no doubt that the same people involved in the Croke Park project who are now behind this will have worked out the figures in terms of what is best for the GAA. If Peter Quinn reckons it's a goer, that's good enough for me.
Quote from: Donagh on April 06, 2009, 04:02:36 PM
Quote from: Maguire01 on April 06, 2009, 01:40:12 PM
Since 2001, I think it is 4 games that have been moved to Croke Park - three Ulster Finals and an Ulster Final replay.
The attendance at the replay (in 2005) was so small it could have been held in Clones (or Casement) with current capacity constraints. The attendance at the others would suggest that even a 45,000 capacity stadium would not be enough to satisfy demands for such instances where there is exceptional demand.
So we have actually had to move 3 games to Croke Park in the last 7/8 years (since 2001). Hardly justifies the need for a massive new stadium - especially one which still won't be big enough for those games that were moved in the past.
If Peter Quinn reckons it's a goer, that's good enough for me.
Like the Daily Ireland then??
A lot of posts on this subject not seeing a bigger picture here at all.
Firstly the so called traffic hold ups. With at least four main exit points from the city, there is obvious potential for getting the area cleared a lot faster than its traditional big match competitor, Clones. Most gaels expect a bit of a delay here or there, and factor it into their schedules, but in saying that the feasability study would have clear action plans for traffic dispersal and adequate parking, otherwise the option would not stand any chance of approval in the first place.
Secondly, and a point no one else seems to have made.
Antrim is a sleeping giant in Gaa terms. But be certain that some not to distant future a good group of players (hurlers and footballers) will emerge, and with good organisation will compete on equal terms with some of todays so called "aristocrats" of the game. Of that Im absolutely certain.
For a minute cast your minds back to the year 2000. At last Antrim footballers got over the first hurdle, against Down. In a crowd of approx ten thousand, I would hazard a guess that about two or three thousand were Antrim supporters.
Next up was Derry, and I`d guess in a crowd of 14,000, about six thousand were Antrim supporters. As we know the hand of Tohill saved the day for Derry, and we were a point away from an Ulster final.
Now the relevant part. For the replay, Id reckon there was 20,000 spectators. But no doubt the majority were in saffron colours.
My point is Antrim have a massive "dormant" support base. All that is needed to activate this, is a good run of results mixed in with some sensible marketing. In the above example, our c`ship support base went from approx 3K to approx 12K in three weeks.
Just as the Dubs are good for the game, like them or not, Ulster football needs a big strong Antrim support. Because lets be honest, we are the one county that has the real potential to get "new" spectators through the turnstiles.
If Antrim ever get to an Ulster final or beyond, they would attract a support base higher than any other Ulster county. The marketing mens job would be to keep them coming back again.
My final point supports this theory. A big vibrant and professionally run Casement Park, with shops (O Neills, Gaelic Gear etc), branded restaurants, (KFC, Pizza Hut etc) a few well run licensed premises, museum, etc etc, would revitalise the west end of Belfast, and permit Gaelic Games to be seen to be at the forefront of that, in a city with a big soccer culture, but also it must be said with a massive appreciation of its Irish cultural identity.
There are not too many places in Ulster that couldnt be in Belfast in less than an hour, and have no doubt, the spin off in GAA terms is potentially massive.
Antrim the new Dubs.
Quote from: bannside on April 07, 2009, 10:55:02 AM
Firstly the so called traffic hold ups. With at least four main exit points from the city, there is obvious potential for getting the area cleared a lot faster than its traditional big match competitor, Clones. Most gaels expect a bit of a delay here or there, and factor it into their schedules, but in saying that the feasability study would have clear action plans for traffic dispersal and adequate parking, otherwise the option would not stand any chance of approval in the first place.
Bannside, it is nor 'so called' traffic problems at casement, there are genuine traffic problems. The fact that the M1 motorway turnoff is the main route for the majority of the traffic causes problems in itself, the volume of traffic arriving at the same time increases due to the better road up until this point causing a bottleneck effect at the exit, this in turn causes huge tailbacks along the motorway which results in health & safety issues along with other issues such as roadrage and general disruption for non GAA attending people using the cities main arterial routes, for this reason alone a feasibility study would be necessary for all traffic issues. I have been to games in Casement where i have seen people parking on the layby on the M1 which clearly is not a suitable situation.
This is not as much of a problem in Clones as the traffic is more staggered in its approach and more even in it distribution of the roads leading into the town.
I agree with the rest of your approach that Antrim will come good in the future and that their increased support can only be good for the GAA but i feel that Casement present too many problems to be made into a 40,000+ stadium. If location was the main factor without any other consideration the i believe Silverwood in Lurgan would be a prime location for a new stadium, but if the option is to renovate a current stadium to this standard it should be the Athletic Grounds. Yes it has recently got a renovation but it is still behind the standard of Breffni, Clones, Healy Park, Brewster Park, Celtic Park, The Marshes and even Casement, but it is fairly centrally located and more roads leading to the town. Also it is unlikely the majority of the traffic will be coming from the same direction as would be the case in Casement.
QuoteThere are not too many places in Ulster that couldnt be in Belfast in less than an hour,
South Armagh, West Tyrone, almost all of Monaghan, All of Cavan, Fermanagh and Donegal. Oddly enough these places have more interest in the GAA than most of the places which are within one hour of Belfast.
Multiple exit points are fine if the teams playing are from opposite sides of the city. Clones works well enough for Armagh v Fermanagh or v Cavan where the crowds are approaching from opposite sides of the town.
A redesigned Casement with shops, restaurants etc is a a great idea, and promotion in Antrim is a great idea, the only question is whether it should be a very large stadium or a high quality all seater with 20k capacity. Maybe even make it the only GAA stadium in Ireland with a roof.
The Stoops are proposing today that a new stadium should be built behind the Europa bus station.
Quote from: Donagh on April 07, 2009, 12:04:30 PM
The Stoops are proposing today that a new stadium should be built behind the Europa bus station.
Aren't they a week late with that one?
Quote from: Deal_Me_In on April 07, 2009, 11:27:27 AM
Quote from: bannside on April 07, 2009, 10:55:02 AM
Firstly the so called traffic hold ups. With at least four main exit points from the city, there is obvious potential for getting the area cleared a lot faster than its traditional big match competitor, Clones. Most gaels expect a bit of a delay here or there, and factor it into their schedules, but in saying that the feasability study would have clear action plans for traffic dispersal and adequate parking, otherwise the option would not stand any chance of approval in the first place.
Bannside, it is nor 'so called' traffic problems at casement, there are genuine traffic problems. The fact that the M1 motorway turnoff is the main route for the majority of the traffic causes problems in itself, the volume of traffic arriving at the same time increases due to the better road up until this point causing a bottleneck effect at the exit, this in turn causes huge tailbacks along the motorway which results in health & safety issues along with other issues such as roadrage and general disruption for non GAA attending people using the cities main arterial routes, for this reason alone a feasibility study would be necessary for all traffic issues. I have been to games in Casement where i have seen people parking on the layby on the M1 which clearly is not a suitable situation.
This is not as much of a problem in Clones as the traffic is more staggered in its approach and more even in it distribution of the roads leading into the town.
Your post is clearly ridiculous. Are you suggesting that it is easier to get traffic in and out of a hick town like Clones than the second largest city in Ireland?
Why is everyone obliged to use the M1 to access Casement? Anyone coming up the M1 could easily go through Lisburn and down to Casement via the Stewartstown, Glen or Springfield Roads. You could even use the Upper Lisburn and Malone Roads and park on that side of the M1. It has never taken me longer than 50 minutes to get from my in-laws house just outside Newry to Casement or back regardless of the size of the crowd. It's simply about knowing alternative routes.
The size of the city is not a great guide to delay, Dublin is the biggest city in Ireland and has long delays. People who show a bit of innovation in their route do OK in Clones also. Personally I am happier to drive around Monaghan with the flags on my car exploring for a better route than I am to drive around Lisburn doing likewise.
I really don't think that the GAA need the stadium but if the money is there from the government for it then why not.
On a general point, i think its disappointing that the joint stadium didn't come off as it would have represented a great opportunity to showcase gaelic games across the political divide.
Casement is on a great site but parking is the obvious problem. would there much scope for underground parking initiatives ala the new landsdowne road - maybe coupled with a park and ride scheme for out of town commuters to the city centre? a holistic approach from local government here, including improved roads from lisburn into west belfast (excluding the M1) could pay large dividends for city bound traffic generally.
Quote from: The GAA on April 07, 2009, 12:21:44 PM
I really don't think that the GAA need the stadium but if the money is there from the government for it then why not.
On a general point, i think its disappointing that the joint stadium didn't come off as it would have represented a great opportunity to showcase gaelic games across the political divide.
Casement is on a great site but parking is the obvious problem. would there much scope for underground parking initiatives ala the new landsdowne road - maybe coupled with a park and ride scheme for out of town commuters to the city centre? a holistic approach from local government here, including improved roads from lisburn into west belfast (excluding the M1) could pay large dividends for city bound traffic generally.
Your post is clearly ridiculous. Casement has no greater parking problem than Croke Park. There are several schools within a half mile radius of Casement Park that would gladly take the money from allowing their car parks to be used on big match days. It is also possible (and no more dangerous than doing so in Dublin) to park on the streets near Casement. I have never parked further than 100 yards from the main entrance to Casement, regardless of the size of the crowd. That's when I'm taxiing the da-in-law.Otherwise I walk.
This may be news to you but most people attending a game in a 50,000 seater casement will not be able to walk. most people will be coming from south of belfast. most people will not know the nooks and crannys to park in around casement.
modern stadiums will be required to plan adequately for parking for a full capacity before they have a hope of getting planning permission. you cannot write on the planning application "i'll be able to park at me uncle frankie's and there's room for 2 more punters on his drive".
You think that Casement can match Croke Park's parking availabilty through the college as it stands now? can't see it myslef and even if it were that would not be enough to satisfy planning laws today
"Build it and they will come."
Quote from: The GAA on April 07, 2009, 12:33:29 PM
modern stadiums will be required to plan adequately for parking for a full capacity before they have a hope of getting planning permission. you cannot write on the planning application "i'll be able to park at me uncle frankie's and there's room for 2 more punters on his drive".
There is bucketloads of onstreet parking around Casement - more in fact than around Clones.
The notion of 10,000/20,000/40,000 punters being herded into multistrorey carparks on a given matchday is nightmarish, to say the least.
Some of you guys would claim to know more than most, quite obvious none of you have ever heard of park n ride which is a pity because it can be a good thing. A change of culture might require that we dont expect to get two wheels on the kerb outside the ground entrance when 40 000 people are attending and the "away like a hare" run at the end of the game missing the last point but by the same token getting home first out of 40000 is always a badge worth running people over for.
Quote from: cornafean on April 07, 2009, 12:49:39 PM
There is bucketloads of onstreet parking around Casement - more in fact than around Clones.
That won't get you planning permssion.
Quote from: cornafean on April 07, 2009, 12:49:39 PM
Quote from: The GAA on April 07, 2009, 12:33:29 PM
modern stadiums will be required to plan adequately for parking for a full capacity before they have a hope of getting planning permission. you cannot write on the planning application "i'll be able to park at me uncle frankie's and there's room for 2 more punters on his drive".
There is bucketloads of onstreet parking around Casement - more in fact than around Clones.
Well obviously - it is in a city after all. But it doesn't have the same amount of open spaces (such as fields).
I'm in favour of a casement upgrade,
Ok i'm biased, down supporter now living in Belfast.
The upgrade of Casement and the playing of more matches in it would attract more supporters - for a start there is a lot of students and ex students who moved to Belfast and have just stopped going to matches - having the matches in Belfast might just get them back again!
And Croke Park is a disaster to drive too - over 2 hours from the the end of the motorway to the car park at times! - Could casement really be anyworse?
We don't need a big stadium at all just a good redeveloped one with good facilites etc
Quote from: tyrone86 on April 07, 2009, 12:05:33 PM
Quote from: Donagh on April 07, 2009, 12:04:30 PM
The Stoops are proposing today that a new stadium should be built behind the Europa bus station.
Aren't they a week late with that one?
Not at all. No decision has been taken yet and i doubt there will be any decision in a rush.
There's also no guarantee that the British Government will allow the funds originally ringfenced for a 'shared' project, to be allocated out to the three sporting bodies. If it's a case of finding another way of using the money or losing it, we might as well at least consider other avenues - as long as we don't spend another £XXmillion considering them.
Quote from: saffron sam2 on April 07, 2009, 12:14:38 PM
It has never taken me longer than 50 minutes to get from my in-laws house just outside Newry to Casement or back regardless of the size of the crowd. It's simply about knowing alternative routes.
Regardless of the size of the crowd? What sizes have these crowds been? Seriously, give a few examples of 'big crowd' matches that have happened at Casement. There's no point in comparing getting out of Casement with 10,000 punters to getting out of Clones with 36,000.
I've never been at a match at Casement that has had any more than about 15,000 attendance. I can't recall seeing any with an attendance around the 25,000 mark. And you'd be doubling that for this new stadium.
Quote from: Maguire01 on April 07, 2009, 01:17:26 PM
Quote from: tyrone86 on April 07, 2009, 12:05:33 PM
Quote from: Donagh on April 07, 2009, 12:04:30 PM
The Stoops are proposing today that a new stadium should be built behind the Europa bus station.
Aren't they a week late with that one?
Not at all. No decision has been taken yet and i doubt there will be any decision in a rush.
There's also no guarantee that the British Government will allow the funds originally ringfenced for a 'shared' project, to be allocated out to the three sporting bodies. If it's a case of finding another way of using the money or losing it, we might as well at least consider other avenues - as long as we don't spend another £XXmillion considering them.
I meant, isn't it a week late for 1st April.
Isn't the back of the Europa bus station in heart of the Sandy Row?
The planning requirements in terms of parking will be a huge consideration for any prospective new stadium. In global terms this can frequently be the biggest hurdle for urban sites. citing existing grounds and their parking quirkes is missing the reality that these were not subject to anything approaching modern planning regulations when they were established.
Quotecan't recall seeing any with an attendance around the 25,000 mark. And you'd be doubling that for this new stadium.
Armagh v Derry 2005 had 27,633 in attendance. On that day access was easier as most Derry people were coming from the opposite side of town to Armagh people. This game was an advertisement for Casement as there was probably a decent neutral crowd from around Belfast.
Re planning, you might be in problems if planning to increase capacity to 40,000, however if you are just doing up the place within its existing capacity then you do not have a problem. Moving to new site would open all sorts of planning problems however.
Every week someone new pops up and claims they have a patch for a new sports stadium. This argument is becoming nuts. My favoured option is to bulldose everything around Windsor park, put up 4 stands and roll the pitch, stick the wee flag up, and make it Parc Windsor
IFA crisis holds up stadium cash for rugby and GAA
Funding for improvements at Belfast's main rugby and GAA grounds has been held up by the ongoing power struggle at the Irish Football Association.
The Executive at the NI Assembly has earmarked £110m for the upgrading of football's Windsor Park, GAA's Casement Park and the rugby venue at Ravenhill.
But sports minister Nelson McCausland said no money would be paid until he was satisfied with how the IFA was run.
The funding for all three sports was locked into one overall package.
McCausland had previously made it clear that the IFA would not get any public money for improving Windsor while president Raymond Kennedy and vice-president David
Martin remained in office.
The pair were heavily criticised in an independent report into the sacking of chief executive Howard Wells in 2008.
Wells sued for unfair dismissal and the case cost the Irish FA over £500,000, which included a payout to the former chief executive and legal costs.
On Monday four members, including Kennedy and Martin, resigned from the IFA's Executive Board, making it unable to make decisions.
An independent review is to take place into the running of the football association.
Minister McCausland told the BBC it was vital the Irish FA completed the review urgently.
"We were tasked with bringing forward a package of stadium developments," he said.
"How the money is spent on the three sports - each of them has an impact on the others.
"We have to be certain about the actual cost per stadium.
"It is absolutely essential that the IFA are in the right shape to take this forward.
"There is a great deal of urgency about the work that has to be done by the IFA."
BBCi: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/8948064.stm (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/8948064.stm)
There's also a video interview by Mark Sidebottom with the wee daftie on this page.
A longer interiew with Nelson McCausland, the wee daftie from da big hoose on da heel.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-11100385 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-11100385)