Semple Stadium social distancing measures defended

November 16, 2021

A view of Semple Stadium before the Allianz FL Division 1 South round 2 clash between Dublin and Kerry. ©INPHO/Ryan Byrne.

Semple Stadium chairman Con Hogan has responded to criticism relating to social distancing at last Sunday's Tipperary SHC final.

Initially, only the 10,000-capacity O Riain Stand was open to spectators for the final between Loughmore-Castleliney and Thurles Sarsfields, which ended in a draw. But despite the official attendance being 6,300, officials decided to also open the Kinane Stand to appease fans who were uncomfortable with the lack of social distancing.

"There was no requirement for distancing at outdoor venues, that has been lifted and that didn’t apply yesterday," Hogan told Tipp FM.

“However, when people began to feel that they wanted more space, we opened access to the Kinane Stand and people were allowed to go across in an orderly manner at the back of the town-end goal and sit in the Kinane Stand, which they did.

“There was no issue whatsoever with allowing people to do that, we’d always plan for overflows like that.”

Last Sunday's county final also saw the launch of a new Tipperary GAA fundraising scheme called 'My Stadium Seat', which offers supporters the opportunity to name a seat in Semple Stadium after themselves, a family member, friend, club or business. Packages range from €100 to €500 and the proceeds will go towards the redevelopment of the Kinane Stand.

More information can be found at www.MyStadiumSeat.com

 


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