The GAA have responded to calls for Páirc Uí Chaoimh to open its doors for the Liam Miller charity match, stressing the organisation is "prohibited in rule" from hosting games other than those under the control of the Association in its stadia and grounds.
Since GAA rules do not allow soccer or rugby to be played on any of their grounds except for Croke Park, that request was denied.
The game, slated for 25 September, will see an Ireland/Celtic XI will take on a Manchester United XI to raise funds for Miller’s family. The likes of Martin O'Neill, Roy Keane, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, and Damien Duff will all be involved and the public response has been huge.
All 7,000 tickets for the game at Turner's Cross sold out within minutes.
That led to stronger calls for a switch to the 45,000 Páirc Uí Chaoimh to accommodate more people, but the GAA are standing firm.
"The GAA is prohibited in rule from hosting games other than those under the control of the Association in its stadia and grounds," it said in a statement.
"The Cork County Committee and Central Council have no discretion in this matter.
"Only a change at Annual Congress can alter this situation. Congress takes place in February each year.
"The GAA has sought legal advice around funding received towards the redevelopment of Páirc Uí Chaoimh and believes it is compliant with the terms and conditions laid down in September 2016.
"The Association re-affirms its offer to provide hospitality facilities at the venue free gratis to assist fundraising efforts around the Liam Miller tribute match and wish the event organisers every success in their endeavours."
