Fan zones should be set up in Dublin for the FIFA Women’s World Cup this Summer – Farrell

Fan zones for this Summer’s FIFA Women’s World Cup should be considered by Dublin City Council, Fine Gael TD Alan Farrell has said.

The high-profile tournament takes place this July and August in Australia and New Zealand. It is the first time Ireland has qualified.

Deputy Farrell said: “Sport plays an enormous part in Irish culture, particularly when one our national teams qualify for a major international tournament. We all took great pride in the achievement of the women’s national team when they qualified for this year’s FIFA World Cup, and we should, by all means, show our support here at home during the tournament.

“Demand for tickets to Irish games has been enormous, so much so that the opening game against Australia was recently moved to a larger stadium to accommodate the demand from fans.

“Many Irish people in Australia, as well as fans travelling from Ireland will be on hand to cheer on our women in green, however many will not be able to travel but will want to join the support from home.”

Deputy Farrell continued: “Ireland’s campaign kicks off on Thursday July 20^th, with the remaining group games taking place on Wednesday 26^th and Monday 31^st of July and I believe that fan-zones should be facilitated during these group games in Dublin.

“Similar fan zones have been set up when the men’s national team have played in major tournaments.

“These dates also coincide with school summer holidays and will provide a great opportunity for families to support our national team. Dublin City Council should consider what can be done. We have two months still to go – there is plenty of time.

“This competition, and Ireland’s participation in it, has the potential to inspire countless young people, particularly young girls, to take up sport and we should do everything we can to facilitate fans and supporters to join together in their support and, hopefully, celebration, memories of which can last a lifetime.