The Department for Communities has published a VEAT notice outlining proposed modification to the contract for the redevelopment of Casement Park.

SDLP MLA Justin McNulty said it a positive step towards delivering a new permanent home for the GAA in Ulster, following planning approval granted for the project by the SDLP’s Infrastructure Minister in 2021.

Mr McNulty MLA said: "The new Casement Park will be a significant community asset not just to west Belfast but for people across the North and across our island. The ambitious plan to host the EURO 2028 tournament is just the start – we will be able to attract international sporting events that will inspire a generation of young people to lead active lives and consider a career in sport.

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"The opportunity we have to deliver an outstanding stadium project is immense – we need to grab it with both hands.

SDLP west Belfast Councillor Paul Doherty added: "Casement Park is a signature project that will showcase the best of west Belfast and deliver jobs and opportunities in our community. As well as giving local gaels the permanent home they so richly deserve, it will attract global events to this part of our city.

"It's time to deliver on the ambition of Casement Park now."

Meanwhile, representatives from the Alliance Party have said they will review the GAA's newly published VEAT notice.

Alliance Sport and Community Development spokesperson David Honeyford MLA said: "The GAA have issued a Voluntary Ex-Ante Transparency notice (VEAT), notifying of their intention to modify the contract changes to the design and cost of Casement Park.

"This will invoke a 'standstill period' whereby the procurement procedure is paused for a period of 30 days.

"Where we are at this point, we will review the VEAT notice and discuss the proposed changes with the GAA."