Thousands gather for rally on lack of progress

Several thousand people, including former Sinn Féin president Gerry Adams, have gathered in west Belfast to protest about the failure to redevelop Casement Park stadium.

The GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association) ground has been lying derelict for more than a decade.

The protest was organised by South Antrim GAA, ahead of the Ulster championship match between Antrim and Armagh at nearby Corrigan Park.

Organisers of the march and rally said it was to put pressure on the Communities Minister Gordon Lyons and Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn to do more to ensure the stadium is rebuilt.

Protest signs included the slogans “Casement’s calling, Gordon’s stalling” and “Hilary Benn tell us when”.

It is estimated that it would cost at least £260m to build a new stadium, but only around £120m is currently available.

Lyons has promised £62.5m from the Stormont executive, the GAA say it will pay £15m while the Irish government has pledged around £43m.

Casement Park, with a 34,500 capacity, had been earmarked to host football games at the Euro 2028 football tournament but, with the project on hold, the plan has been shelved.

Speakers due to address the rally include Oisín McConville, a former All Ireland football championship winner with Armagh in 2002.

Kevin Gamble, chairperson of South Antrim GAA, said: “Delaying tactics need to stop.

“This generation of Gaels and the generations to follow deserve better.”

Before the rally, protestors gathered at the O’Donovan Rossa GAA club before a planned mile-long walk to Casement Park.