The FAI today, Thursday, 16 July, expressed its disappointment at the unavailability of the Tallaght Stadium for Saturday evenings League of Ireland match between Shamrock Rovers and Sligo Rovers.

 

The FAI grants permission for all friendly fixtures on the clear understanding that there would be no effect on the playing of scheduled League of Ireland fixtures, all parties including South Dublin County Council were aware of that.

 

South Dublin County Council have for health and safety reasons refused Shamrock Rovers the use of the stadium. After several meetings between the parties involved, the FAI offered full assurances to provide all required personnel to address these concerns to allow this game to proceed as scheduled however South Dublin County Council has insisted that the stadium will remain closed.

 

Speaking today, Fran Gavin, League of Ireland Director said, "We are disappointed that this game will not go ahead in Tallaght. Last Thursday, (July 9th) the FAI received official notification of the council's decision to close the venue and having tried to find a solution, including playing the game on Friday night, South Dublin County Council have decided that the game will not go ahead at the Tallaght Stadium. Shamrock Rovers have also expressed their disappointment at South Dublin County

 

Councils decision. As a result, the game has now been rescheduled for Saturday evening at Tolka Park at 7pm."