Jack Wall
Ceist:224 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position in regard to the provision of a national stadium; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31446/03]
Written Answers. - National Stadium.
In response to my invitation, the IRFU and FAI commissioned Arup Consultants to draw up prioritised proposals to meet the needs of both organisations for modern stadium accommodation. This report has been subjected to detailed examination by the Office of Public Works, my technical advisor on the project. I received the Office of Public Works's comprehensive analysis of the Arup report in mid-September. Since then, in addition to firming up my own conclusions on the issues highlighted in the Arup and Office of Public Works studies, I have had further discussions and consultations with interested parties to firm up the various options on meeting the stadium needs. In this regard, on 10 December the IRFU presented me with a report which identified further options relating to the development of Lansdowne Road. I had a further meeting with the IRFU and FAI yesterday at which these proposals were discussed. I am now finalising my evaluation of the various options for the provision of stadium facilities and I intend to bring forward proposals to the Government at an early date.