GAA President Aogan O’Fearghail attended London GAA’s ‘Ground Breaking Ceremony’ in Ruislip on Thursday evening.
It was a hugely significant event in the history of the association in London with work expected to commence on the redevelopment in early June.
London GAA Chairman Noel O'Sullivan highlighted just how important a role the refurbished Emerald GAA Grounds will play for Irish people in the future.
“London County Board was formed and affiliated to the Central Council of the Gaelic Athletic Association in 1896,” O'Sullivan commented.
“Over the intervening 120 years the organisation has grown to an extent that ensures London can lay claim to being the most successful and vibrant unit within the association outside of the island of Ireland.
“Since its purchase in 1978 and the construction of the clubhouse in 1990 Ruislip has become synonymous with London GAA.
“Aside from being ‘the’ focal point of the association in London, Ruislip is also a centre of cultural importance for the larger Irish community in London. Ruislip has been the headquarters of London since 1991 and its status as a cultural centre has developed over this time.”
Those tasked with developing Gaelic Games in London will be assisted when the work is completed at Ruislip in May 2016.
“The development of our games remains a key objective of London GAA. The facilities that the redeveloped Ruislip will provide guarantees more opportunities for your youth players both in a club and school setting to compete in our games in Ruislip on a more regular basis.
“The London Ruislip Development Committee was formed in May 2011 to consider the long term future of Ruislip as the flagship ground of the GAA in Britain.”
Provincial Councils, County Boards, and clubs are being asked by London GAA chiefs to assist financially also.
“London GAA is committed to raising £500,000 as part of the total funding required for these works," O'Sullivan said. "To date nearly 50% has been raised mainly by donations from Patrons of Ruislip development which prior to gaining planning permission has been a great show of support from business people in London.
“We are now asking for the support of clubs and counties at home in Ireland as we attempt to raise the funds necessary to bring our development project to fruition. We would be grateful if all clubs, county boards and provincial councils would consider making a donation of between 100-200euro towards the project.”
