Dundalk FC deal saves club from brink – McGahon

The recently secured deal with a new consortium headed by local man John Temple has pulled Dundalk FC back from the brink of liquidation, and now a solid financial plan is required to get the club back up on an even keel, Dundalk-based Senator John McGahon has said.

Speaking after the announcement that a deal has been secured Senator McGahon said: “Dundalk FC is the lifeblood of the town, there’s not a single family who haven’t had an association with the club at some point throughout its 121 years in existence. That’s why the last few days have been extraordinarily difficult for everyone involved, connected or supportive of the club.

“Today’s announcement means that not only will the senior team continue in the league, but jobs have been secured, academy and underage football for male and female teams will continue and Dundalk FC has survived.

“Thankfully, the immediate financial danger of going into liquidation has been avoided. Now it’s a case of deciding how the club’s medium to long term financial future can become secure.

“To limit the chances of this happening to any club in the future, the FAI must consider making licencing laws stricter and more robust for next season.

“The funding model of League of Ireland clubs, a self-sustaining model, should be considered, as clubs cannot rely on an individual with financial backing to step in from season to season. Qualifying for European football only provides the capability of financing one more year.

“Therefore, funding is not just required from any club owner, but also the community and League of Ireland supporters’ clubs, like the 1903 in Dundalk’s case, who have played a significant role in fundraising.

“The redevelopment of Oriel Park must also be a priority. While the recent announcement of €500,000 from the Government for the pitch and floodlights is to be welcomed, it will require millions to get Oriel Park up to the standard worthy of a team with Dundalk’s history. Equally, the YDC is a great facility and has the potential to be in use all year around for families and the wider community.

“The Large Scale Sports Infrastructure Fund, which assesses applications for funding between €600,000 and €30m will be one of the vehicles required for the re-development. For example, Finn Harps have used this fund to their advantage, receiving a state allocation of €3.9 Million in 2020 and a top up of €700,000 in 2023, a total of €4.7 Million over four years towards their stadium development.

“The immediate financial danger, which could have seen the club going bust this week, has been avoided. Now it’s time to financially secure the clubs future and not allow us to be taken to the brink again,” concluded Senator McGahon.