Dundalk boss’s views a ‘cheap shot’ - TD

COMMENTS by Dundalk FC manager Stephen Kenny, criticising the local council and politicians for not doing enough to provide the region with a modern sporting arena, have been described by a TD as a ‘ cheap shot’.

Kenny made his feelings known before Dundalk secured a €7 million windfall by qualifying for the Champions League play-offs.

The team beat BATE Borisov 3-0 to overcome a first-leg deficit, to set up a clash with Legia Warsaw, which will see the winners advance to the lucrative Champions League group stage.

The BATE game took place in Tallaght Stadium because Dundalk’s home ground, Oriel Park, is not up to the required standard.

Kenny said: ‘Louth county council and the politicians in Dundalk need to look at the fact there is no stadium for anyone for any sport in the region.’

Fianna Fail TD Declan Breathnach said he would love to see an appropriate all-sports stadium in the county, something that has been pursued in his time on the board of DkIT.

‘I would welcome any proposals or suggestions from Stephen or any interested parties, on how the council and sporting organisations collectively can collaborate to achieve that.’

He added the Dundalk manager’s remarks were ‘a cheap shot at the council and politicians, who do their best with the sometimes paltry resources at their disposal.’

‘I am sure Dundalk’s great victory and subsequent windfall could help in achieving a worthy ambition .’

Offering his congratulations, Deputy Fergus O’Dowd said he would be more than happy to meet with Mr Kenny to discuss the issues raised to see if he can help in anyway.

‘We, as a government, supplied nearly €1.5 million to sports clubs in County Louth last year through the capital programme.’

Imelda Munster TD noted that Ministers Shane Ross and Patrick O’Donovan have yet to make a decision on whether or not the grants will be available this year.

‘I would like to extend my congrat- ulations to Dundalk FC for their truly well-deserved and well-earned win. It is a fantastic achievement.

‘ There is a need for multi-purpose sports campuses in Louth, and local authorities need to deliver on this, in conjunction with residential developments,’ she added.

Her Sinn Fein colleague, Gerry Adams said: ‘All of the sporting codes in Dundalk and throughout the State should be supported.

‘ The achievement by the players, staff and management is immense and I wish Dundalk FC well in their upcoming matches.

‘I also wish to commend the thousands who support the team.’