Sinn Fein is calling for the Casement Park project in Belfast to progress without further delay.

Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon MLA recommended planning approval in the redevelopment on its existing site on the Andersonstown Road.

Communities Minister Carál Ní Chuilín said: “Ensuring the new stadium at Casement Park is built is a key priority in the New Decade, New Approach agreement and I am fully committed to delivering on this priority area and will continue to work closely with our partners in the GAA and with Executive Colleagues. I have already spoken with Ulster GAA this afternoon and will ensure the next necessary steps are taken to move delivery of this much awaited project forward at a pace.

-- Advertisement --

“As we can see from the redevelopment of the Windsor Park Stadium and the Kingspan Stadium, these projects have a positive impact for the whole community, which goes far beyond the benefits for sport. Especially in light of the Covid crisis, the social and economic benefits of having this project built for both Belfast and further afield are clear for all to see. This makes it all the more important that we move now to ensure the Casement project is finally delivered.”

Sinn Fein MLA Sinead Ennis said: "The announcement that planning approval has been given to build a new state of the art stadium at Casement Park is very welcome news.

"Not only will this be welcomed by Antrim Gaels; it is also a massive boost for west Belfast and the wider community.

"It will provide a welcome economic boost to west Belfast and also create many jobs in the construction.

"I want to congratulate the Ulster Council and Antrim GAA and everyone who worked so hard over many years to get where we are today.

"Sinn Féin have been at the forefront of campaigning on this project for many years, working with many others, to get us to a place where the Minister is in a place to make this positive announcement."