Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 November 2017
209. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the steps he will take to address issues arising from Ireland's failure to attract the Rugby World Cup here; if these issues will be addressed in early date to ensure that further opportunities in this regard have a better chance of success; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49618/17]
View answerBefore I respond to the deputy's question, I wish to congratulate France on their win. I wish them every success as they turn their attention to delivering what I hope will be an outstanding tournament in 2023.
Wednesday's result was disappointing, particularly after the years of work put into the bid. However, in our disappointment, we should not lose sight of the fact that the technical report found that Ireland would be an excellent host for a Rugby World Cup. Though we were not successful, it is important to highlight that fact.
Ireland was up against two previous hosts and in the evaluation report we fell behind them based on the quality of their stadia, many of which are recently built as result of hosting Euro 2016 and the 2010 FIFA World Cup. We presented a different, more sustainable vision, that involved investment in existing stadia to meet tournament standards. Unfortunately, RWCL’s (Rugby World Cup Ltd) evaluators did not agree. In any event, ultimately the voters did not support the RWCL recommendation.
We did not win the bid due to the votes cast last Wednesday and in a competition of this nature there always will be a winner and losers. That does not take away from the excellent work that was done in preparing our bid.
The question as to whether or not the bid might have been altered is a matter in the first instance for the IRFU. This I am sure will be a matter for reflection over the coming weeks and months. For my part I responded positively to every request that was made of me to ensure that Government support was available at all times.
