The Minister's comments follows the publication of the DCAL Stadia Programme 'Project Assessment Review' (PAR) Team's independent report which she initiated earlier this year. The report was launched after evidence was presented to the CAL Committee in April, claiming that warnings regarding safety concerns into proposed emergency exiting arrangements for the redeveloped stadium in west Belfast were ignored.
The review was led up by an experienced Review Team Leader from the Cabinet Office's Major Projects Authority, and looked at the three stadia in the regional programme – Casement Park, Kingspan (formerly Ravenhill) Stadium, and Windsor Park.
In the report, 20 recommendations were made, most of which relate to the Casement Park development, of which will be addressed as things move forward. The report added that it will be at least another 12 months before a revised planning application could be lodged.
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Commenting on the findings, the Sports Minister said: "I wish to thank the Review Team for their thorough and comprehensive report which will now serve as a route map for the delivery of the remainder of the Executive's regional stadia commitments and the Casement Park project in particular.
"The Review Team's key finding is that a redeveloped regional stadium on the Casement Park site is achievable. This is very welcome and provides clarity to the overall project."
She continued: "While people have criticised the Stadium Programme and myself over recent weeks and months, this report by leading professionals demonstrates beyond any shadow of a doubt the open, transparent and professional approach that I have taken in looking at the Casement Park project.
"I accept this report in full, both the recognition of the good work so far, and the recommendations for change. I would urge others to do likewise. This project can and should be completed, and I believe that we are now in a better position than ever before to move ahead with it.
"I accept that it may take longer than originally envisaged to submit a revised planning application, but I will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to ensure that this can happen as soon as is possible. The Regional Stadium Programme is a Programme for Government commitment which I have and will continue to honour.
"Like their colleagues in Ulster Rugby and the IFA, the GAA in Ulster needs and deserves a stadium that it can be proud of and which will not only be a centre of sporting excellence but which will serve as an economic driver for the area. This report gives real impetus to this becoming a reality."
(JP/LM)
