Update on the Sport Ireland National Indoor Arena

Following last Friday’s announcement that the National Indoor Arena will be repurposed to assist with emergency refugee accommodation for the next six weeks, Athletics Ireland wish to note that we have immediately engaged with key parties in regard to this decision.

Athletics Ireland CEO Hamish Adams notes, “Athletics Ireland acknowledge the emergency needs of the people of Ukraine, and we recognise the need for all of society to step in to help. We understand the temporary nature of this initiative and we hope to see the Arena return to full athletics capacity by mid October 2022. Athletics in Ireland has never been stronger and we have proven to be a very resilient sport. We will work with our colleagues in Sport Ireland to find an optimal solution for our members.”

Sport Ireland CEO Dr Una May discusses this matter and notes, “Sport Ireland is pleased to be in a position to respond positively to the Government’s request to make the National Indoor Arena available to support the ongoing refugee accommodation challenges. This emergency initiative will be for a period of up to six weeks, allowing the relevant authorities to provide more permanent accommodation for the refugees. Following this, the Arena will be available for the beginning of the indoor athletics season. Sport has been a welcome lifeline for many refugees arriving into Ireland in recent months and the wider sport sector is to be commended in that regard. Sport Ireland Facilities will be offering the use of the facilities on the Sport Ireland Campus for use by the refugees for the duration of their stay. Sport Ireland would like to place on record its gratitude to customers of the National Indoor Arena for their patience and understanding on this matter.”

Sport Ireland statement HERE