Páirc Uí Chaoimh renaming raised at Cabinet by Tánaiste

THE proposed renaming of Páirc Uí Chaoimh has been raised at Cabinet, with a decision on the naming rights yet to be inked.

Criticism had been rife following reports that the landmark stadium could be renamed SuperValu Páirc under a new naming rights deal.

Tánaiste Micheál Martin was among many to voice opposition to the potential rebranding, taking to X, formerly Twitter, to say he was “deeply disappointed and annoyed at the proposal”. He added that Pádraig Ó Caoimh “was a key figure in the formation of the GAA at club and national level”.

"Govt allocated €30m towards the development of the stadium and never sought naming rights,” he continued. 

A spokesperson for the Tánaiste confirmed Mr Martin had raised the matter at Cabinet, with a discussion ensuing about what conditions might be part of future funding for such infrastructure.

In a statement on Tuesday from Cork GAA confirming that it is in discussions with SuperValu regarding the naming rights for Páirc Uí Chaoimh, the association said both sides “have been conscious of the public debate that followed recent speculation in the media”.

“SuperValu and Cork GAA remain committed to continuing their engagement, as both parties share a common interest in supporting Gaelic games across the county, and discussions are continuing,” the statement continued.

At Tuesday night’s monthly meeting of the county board, delegates were told that negotiations remain ongoing with SuperValu with regard to a deal but nothing has been finalised yet.

Dónal Ó Caoimh, the grandson of the stadium’s namesake who said he had learned of the proposed renaming through the media, welcomed the further consideration on a potential rebrand.

“I am relieved the Cork County Board did not approve the renaming of Páirc Uí Chaoimh to SuperValu Páirc last night [Tuesday] as no vote was taken and that the Cork GAA are continuing their discussions with SuperValu on naming rights,” he said. 

“Hopefully now this time will give an opportunity for reflection and debate on how we can both safeguard the sustainable financial health of the Cork GAA and retain my grandfather’s legacy and his place in the hearts and identity of the Irish people,” he said.

Mr Ó Caoimh said he hoped an agreement could be reached adding that “one potential solution is the name SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh”.

Elsewhere in Cork, Fine Gael councillor Deirdre Forde said she also hoped a compromise could be reached.

“I do know that they have to be financially viable and we don’t want to lose Páirc Uí Chaoimh, but I would love if there was a compromise that could be worked out,” she said.

Advocate for the elderly in Cork Paddy O’Brien said he hoped the stadium would not be rebranded as SuperValu Páirc, saying he believed this would “hurt” many people.