Residents welcome Croke Park use for Covid-19 testing

RESIDENTS living in the vicinity of Croke Park have welcomed news that the stadium is to be used as a ‘Drive Thru’ facility for Covid-19 testing, according a local councillor.

Speaking following the announcement, Cllr Nial Ring (Ind), who represents the north inner city on Dublin City Council, said: "The overwhelming reaction was that local residents are very pleased, indeed proud, that this local facility can be used to help those who may have contracted the virus, and we are proud that the GAA offered the facilities to the HSE.

"Croke Park quickly let locals know that the stadium had been deemed suitable for this purpose and we are pleased that they offered this great facility for such a worthy use.

"Locals know that in these uncertain times we must all work together to beat this virus. As this community is already doing its best to look after our own, it's no major sacrifice for us to open our hearts and local stadium to vulnerable people seeking medical advice and assurances.”

Cllr Ring aded: "100 years ago Croke Park witnessed a major atrocity on Bloody Sunday when 14 civilians were murdered by the Black and Tans/RIC. How fitting it is that 100 years later the stadium now plays a role in saving lives.”

In the message sent to local residents, Croke Park said: “Following a high-level request from the HSE and in the national interest, Croke Park is to become a ‘drive-thru’ facility for testing for Covid-19 for designated appointments. This will not be a walk-up service.

“The stadium lay-out has been identified as being suitable for facilitating this important service at this time. As soon as we have further information, we will share it with you.”