This date 32 years ago 19th June 1988, GAA President John Dowling officially opened the re-developed Pairc Tailteann.

The new look stadium included an increased capacity to 40,000, a new Prunty Pitch, new entrance, increase in number of turnstiles along with new toilets.

The grounds were originally owned by the Royal Agricultural Society, some still call it The Showgrounds. A number of sports were played at the venue including cricket, tennis, rugby and hockey. GAA was played there but only on Sundays.

Meath County Board purchased Pairc Tailteann in the early ’30’s from the Agricultural Society for £2.016.00 and started too redevelop.

A new iron paling replaced the wooden one, the pitch was widened and seating was provided before the Official Opening on 8th September 1935, performed by GAA President Bob O’Keeffe. Over 5,000 people attended to see the opening and two games, Meath V Kildare (Leinster champions) and Louth V Ulster champions Cavan.

The new stand was opened and blessed on June 14th 1953 to accommodate over 2,200 people. Pairc Tailteann was now one of the best GAA grounds in the country.

The re-development of Pairc Tailteann as we know it today began in the spring of 1986. Prunty Contract were hired to put in a new pitch. Entrances and Exits were improved, the grass bank opposite the stand was converted into a terrace and the main stand was refurbished. A low wall and railing was erected around the pitch and a new scoreboard was installed.

All Ireland champions Meath took on Kerry to mark the second official opening while Trim and Killyon played a hurling challenge.

In February 2018 Meath GAA got the green light to redevelop Páirc Tailteann into a 21,000 all-seater stadium. Work on the state of the art stadium was due to commence this year but has been put on hold because of Covid-19.

No doubt this project to create an all seater stadium will happen in the future. For Meath requires a vibrant,,, modern and centrally located stadium.

Long may the Pairc Tailteann and GAA connection continue.

 

 

 

 

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