My Department has received a proposal from Sport Ireland in relation to the commencement of Phase 2 of the National Indoor Arena, which comprises the development of covered pitches and ancillary facilities. In accordance with the Public Spending Code, a Cost Benefit Analysis of the proposed project is required. A Cost Benefit Analysis was recently submitted by Sport Ireland and is currently being reviewed by my Department. I will consider the proposal further in due course, taking account of the outcome of my Department's review of the Cost Benefit Analysis.
A Partnership Agreement is in place between Sport Ireland and the IRFU in relation to the development of rugby pitches at the National Sports Campus. I have been informed by Sport Ireland that the IRFU will not commence construction of the rugby pitches until there is clarity regarding the development of Phase 2. While I would like to see the construction of the IRFU's rugby pitches being progressed, it is important that the proposed Phase 2 project, and any other projects proposed for development at the National Sports Campus, would be properly appraised in terms of delivering value for money before consideration is given to approving the project.
