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Confusion

Dublin City Council explain why Sunday's All-Ireland won't be shown on big screen in Smithfield

Local media outlets had confirmed the screening, but DCC have insisted that it’s not happening.

SUNDAY’S ALL-IRELAND FINAL between Dublin and Mayo will not receive an outdoor big screening in Smithfield, Dublin City Council have confirmed.

A number of local media outlets have reported this week that the event had been confirmed for Smithfield Plaza, with Independent Councillor Christy Burke receiving praise for convincing the city council to spend €40,000 in order to erect a big screen akin to the one which broadcast last year’s final between the same counties.

A statement released by DCC, however, insists that this is not the case, and explained that finances were not the only deterrent in deciding not to stage such an event this time around.

“There have been confusing reports in the media regarding whether or not Dublin City Council will arrange for the All Ireland Men’s Senior Football Final to be shown on a big screen in Smithfield,” the statement reads.

“The factual situation is that it will not be shown. Responses to journalists last week indicated that this was the case and this haven’t changed.

“A misunderstanding occurred at Tuesday’s Central Area Committee Meeting that the decision not to screen the match in Smithfield was based solely on cost. While cost is a factor, it was not the deciding one. It should be noted that a big screen was in place for the 2015 and 2016 finals and both events was very poorly attended, albeit as a result of bad weather.

The primary reason, however, is the fact that a large event will take place in Smithfield on the preceding day (16th Sept) and a potential homecoming event would take place on the following day (18th Sept) should Dublin be victorious. To organise three large events in a row, with separate build and take down requirements, is considered an unfair imposition on residents in the area.

The statement concludes: “We apologise for any confusion that may have arisen and wish the Dubs all the best on Sunday and Sunday week.”

The event on 16 September to which it alludes is the BlueFire Street festival, a free-entry and family-friendly celebration of Dublin’s diversity.

The festival will feature some of Ireland’s best musicians, artists and street performers as well as musical workshops, a food market and kid zones.

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Quiz: How well do you know the Dublin football squad aiming for All-Ireland three-in-a-row?

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