Cork GAA defend decision to charge fans entry fee for hurling homecoming

Cork charged €4 for their Monday homecoming

Supporters who wanted to welcome the team back to SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh after their narrow All-Ireland final defeat to Clare were required to pay a €4 entry fee.

Organised by Cork GAA and the Cork City Council, the event was fully ticketed and alcohol free.

Musical acts such as The Frank and Walters, John Spillane, J90 and Myles Gaffney however some fans complained at the decision to charge a fee.

Defending their choice, Cork GAA claimed that the fee was to help pay for the security.

"The need for the modest charge is to pay for the extra security and additional safety measures that are needed in order to run the event safely," said a spokesperson for Cork GAA told the Irish Examiner.

"The charge is also in place to ensure organisers can manage tickets for the event in a fair way. It is essential that the event is run in a family friendly and safe way which means we need to hire additional security."

'Rebels will return next year'

Despite Sunday's disappointment fans still turned up in their droves to pay tribute to the Red Rebels for their part in an All-Ireland and Kevin O'Donovan, Cork GAA CEO, hailed Pat Ryan and his men for their efforts.

He said: "The result may not have gone our way, but we are so proud of Pat Ryan’s team for what they have achieved.

"Rebels Return will be an event for our incredible fan br. They have been with us throughout this year, in the rain and the sun, cheering from their homes, and painting the county the Rebel red. Let’s close this chapter in style, and start working on the next."

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