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Sporting Events

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 July 2012

Tuesday, 3 July 2012

Ceisteanna (98, 99)

Jim Daly

Ceist:

99 Deputy Jim Daly asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has considered or made efforts to attract major sporting events to Ireland; if it would be possible to see rugby world cup games or European soccer tournaments take place here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32052/12]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

736 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the extent to which he has had been in contact with the various national and international sporting organisations with a view to hosting suitable events in this country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32403/12]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

I propose to take Questions Nos. 99 and 736 together.

This question relates to hosting international sports events in Ireland. The Programme for Government includes a commitment that event tourism will be prioritised in order to continue to bring major events to Ireland. As well as bringing spectators to our shores, the hosting of sports events such as the Ryder Cup, the Tall Ships Race, Volvo Ocean Race or the Solheim Cup can provide a great showcase for Ireland. Fáilte Ireland continues to support the holding of sports and other events that can boost tourism.

The normal procedure in regard to the hosting of an international sporting event is that the Irish affiliate of the relevant governing body will bid to host the event in Ireland. In the case of rugby or soccer tournaments, any bid would be made by the IRFU or the FAI. I have expressed my support to both organisations for any bid that they decide to make.

Where appropriate, the State Tourism agencies will provide advice and assistance to the sporting body which is seeking to secure an international event. In certain cases it may also be appropriate for Fáilte Ireland to provide financial support towards the event, in return for a contractually-agreed package of tourism and publicity benefits.

I am supportive of the efforts of the State Tourism Agencies and the National Governing Bodies of Sport to attract suitable international events, subject, of course, to overall Government financial constraints and an assessment of the costs/benefits involved in any particular project.

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