My Department has been considering issues relating to a bid for the America's Cup since May 2021. Following a competitive tender process, my Department engaged EY to conduct a Cost Benefit Analysis on the project and this has been the main focus of my Department's work. In that context, meetings were held with external stakeholders including local authorities, the Port of Cork, and transport providers. This cost benefit analysis built on earlier engagement with the rights holders and analysis by the Department of Foreign Affairs.
My Department is now engaged in a further six month period of assessment to build on the initial Cost Benefit Analysis and assess the potential of hosting the 37th America's Cup. This work will need to be completed before I can make a recommendation to Government on whether Ireland should move forward in the host venue bid process and this has been conveyed to the organisers. In the meantime, my Department will consult other stakeholders as appropriate.