Preist vs. Limerick FC
Local Preist Fr. Joe Young has now decided not to sell his stake in Hogan Park to Limerick FC, but instead looks set to sell to local business people. This is terrible news for Limerick soccer who in two years now look to be out of a home ground!
The preist has previously stated in the press and on the radio that he would grant Limerick FC the lease, but earlier this week his solicitors contacted JRM sports (the name Limerick FC trade under) and informed them that he had gotten a better offer.
Club chairman Danny Drew, who has poured a considerable amount of time and his own money into resurrecting the fortunes of the Blues over the last two years, admitted he was stunned by the development.
He said: ‘I can’t believe that this is happening to senior soccer in Limerick after all the promises that were made to this club about being granted a 25-year lease. Those promises were made by Father Joe Young on live radio and in the press and are on the record.
‘On Tuesday last our solicitors got a draft copy of the lease from Father Joe Young’s solicitors and I thought this matter was close to being resolved at last.
‘But on Thursday, Father Young’s solicitors rang our solicitors telling us that he had changed his mind and that Limerick FC would not be granted the lease.
‘Limerick FC are the sole representative of eircom League football in this city. Is it now going to come down to the highest bidder? This is terrible news for the club and our future.’
Commentating on the developments, Father Young, who was chairman of the club when Sam Allardyce was boss in the early 90s, said he hoped to release a statement next week.
He said: ‘We have received another offer on Hogan Park and I should be in a position to release a statement next week.’
As far as I know the ground would be designated ‘recreational area’ meaning that it would need to be re-zoned in order for development, which is something the council doesnt do very often! This was the same issue that drove Munster Rugby to remain at Thomond Park.