Officials from my Department along with the football associations and government partners of the UK and Ireland continue to undertake feasibility work to assess the viability of a bid before FIFA formally open the bidding process in 2022.
A wide range of factors will be examined during this feasibility study prior to any final decision to bid.
A bid company is being established to help direct and oversee this work. Both the Irish Government and the Football Association of Ireland will make nominations to the board of this bid company.
If a decision is taken to bid, the opportunity to stage a FIFA World Cup would provide an incredible opportunity to deliver tangible benefits for our countries.