League of Ireland football venues to become safer for fans – Carrigy

New safety measures to be deployed at all League of Ireland grounds will ensure attending football matches is an enjoyable experience for all, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Chair of Fine Gael’s Parliamentary Party and member of the Oireachtas Sports Committee Micheál Carrigy said common sense and a commitment to the future development of football in Ireland has prevailed after a child was burnt by a flare and serious damage caused to the newly installed astroturf pitch in Dundalk.

“I commend the work and position taken by Sports Minister Patrick O’Donovan on this and the decisions made by the Football Association of Ireland (FAI).

“In just under a week since those disturbing scenes at Oriel Park, we now have a position where the FAI and League of Ireland (LoI) will ensure there is significant improvements to safety at League of Ireland grounds and stadia.

“These include mandatory CCTV at all grounds and enhanced detection measures at entry. The scenes we witnessed last week cannot be tolerated – at any sport event.

“I know of many ardent football people in my own constituency who are heavily invested and passionate about the future of both Longford Town and Athlone Town football clubs. They do sterling work, and these clubs have a proud history here.

“The safety of all supporters attending matches must always be everyone’s primary concern and the developments this week ensures this will continue to be the case across the country. In time to come, this week will be recognised as the moment when the correct decisions were made for the game and all who play and enjoy it.

“The League of Ireland is enjoying a considering growth and success period in recent years. Attendances are up and Irish clubs are representing us proudly and competing toe to toe with European clubs. Let’s build on that success.

“I commend Minister O’Donovan for his role in this and the swift action taken by the FAI and League of Ireland,” Deputy Carrigy said.