A significant £50 million contribution from the UK Government towards the redevelopment of Belfast-based principle Gaelic games stadium, Casement Park, has been welcomed by the GAA.

This funding, confirmed in the Government's recent Spending Review, represents a major milestone in progressing the construction of the provincial stadium, reinforcing the momentum behind the delivery of the long-awaited project.

With 250,000 members across Ulster, the GAA recognises this funding, alongside the Irish Government's partnership contribution, as critical to moving forward with the redevelopment.

The UK Government's support is seen as a recognition of the long-standing commitments made to transform Casement Park and underlines the strategic importance of this construction project.

Commenting on the announcement, Jarlath Burns, GAA President said: "We welcome this important and significant investment and we thank the Secretary of State, Hilary Benn, the Chancellor of The Exchequer, Rachel Reeves and the UK Government for their positive and generous contribution to ensure that our provincial stadium at Casement Park is finally realised.

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"We know, however, that this is not the final piece of jigsaw and there is much more work to do. The GAA will engage directly, with the NI Executive and the Department for Communities to ensure that all parties actively pursue, and secure, a full funding package that will deliver upon the GAA’s strategic stadium need."

Northern Ireland First Minister and Sinn Féin Vice President, Michelle O'Neill, also welcomed the British government’s announcement of the funding: "Casement Park is an Executive flagship project and is more than just a sporting venue — it will serve as an economic driver for the surrounding communities and region, creating jobs and attracting investment.

"Today's commitment of substantial funding from the British government marks an enormous step forward. It is time for all of us to pull together to now get Casement built."

Despite the missed opportunity to include Casement Park as a host venue for the EURO 2028 Championships, the GAA has reiterated its goodwill and determination to ensure the stadium reaches completion.

The GAA has said it will continue to engage and work constructively with the Northern Ireland Executive, the Department for Communities and all other partners to deliver upon the 14-year commitments to redevelop the flagship project.