Lord Mayor of Dublin, Eibhlin Byrne, FAI President John Delaney and Republic of Ireland Football Manager Giovanni Trapattoni will unveil a new all-weather multi-sports pitch at St. Teresa’s Gardens, Donore Avenue, Dublin 8 on Thursday 12th February 2009 at 2pm.

St Teresa’s Gardens Complex is currently undergoing a Regeneration process, and as part of this process Dublin City Council has worked, in partnership with the local community, in identifying improvements that will benefit the wider community. As part of
a consultation process it was agreed that the installation of a high quality all-weather multi-sports pitch would be a great asset to the local area.

“I am delighted to be here today to open this wonderful all-weather pitch in St. Teresa’s Gardens.  I know there are many aspiring footballers here today who dream of playing football for their country one day, I hope this pitch will encourage them to have the determination and commitment to achieve and realise their dreams” said the Lord Mayor.

At 12 noon, before the official opening of the pitch, a series of football matches will be held between five local schools from the local area.  The schools will play against each other and the top two teams will play in a Grand Final.  Prizes will be presented to the winners after this match.

The all-weather pitch is a joint initiative between Dublin City Council, The Football Association of Ireland and the Department for Arts, Sports and Tourism. 

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For Further Information please contact: Liam Hendrick, Dublin City Council, Liberties Area Office, Tel.222 7321 or Dublin City Council Press Office, Tel. 222 2170/086 815 0010.

Notes to the Editor:
The five local schools involved are: Scoil Treasa Naofa, St Audoens, Synge Street, Francis Street and James Street.
Emerald Pitch Developments Ltd were the contractors that supplied and installed the pitch surface, integrated goals and basketball hoops.  The fencing contractor was NK Fencing Ltd.