Armagh SDLP Councillor Thomas O’Hanlon has called on Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council to create Fan Zones for the All Ireland Final day on Sunday 28th July.
Councillor O’Hanlon explained, ‘For GAA fans reaching the All Ireland Final is the holy grail and for those of us from the Orchard County it doesn’t come around too often. The last time was 21 years ago in 2003.’
‘Armagh have qualified for the All Ireland Final against Galway on Sunday 28th July and whilst Croke Park will be packed to the rafters with over eighty thousand fans, there will be many who wont be able to travel to Dublin for the final. Also, with tickets priced at €100 per person this will put a day in Dublin out of the reach of many families and we want to ensure they don’t miss out on the whole atmosphere.’
‘I have asked the Council’s Chief Executive and Directors to urgently investigate the possibility of creating Fan Zones in Armagh, Portadown and Lurgan. This would allow those who can’t attend the match in Dublin for whatever the reason to come together and support the lads in Orange and White. This is a phenomenal occasion and council can’t sit this one out.’
‘I have asked that Senior Officers work urgently with groups such as our City Centre Management and Chambers of Commerce, our pubs and hospitality sector as well as the GAA to make this a reality. Armagh fans are known the length and breadth of the island and beyond for their passion and dedication to their team, they are unbelievable and the atmosphere will be electric.’
‘This is a truly historic occasion and we all want to be part of it. It’s about making memories and I want the council to be part of that journey. We also hope to be planning for a very special homecoming with a very coveted piece of silverware, so I have put that on officer’s radar as well.’
‘This month we have seen the Euro’s grip the imagination of sports fans, councils and local authorities across the continent have embraced the opportunity, for those of us who are GAA fans, this is our Euros or our World Cup, council cannot not play its part.’
ENDS
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