Mr. John Delaney:

We are not dependent on alcohol sponsorship. When I took over the association in the mid-1990s, the turnover was €7 million. Last year, we had a turnover of €40 million. However, we spend that money on developing the game. If I had €50 million, I would spend it on this. We are not like the plc that seeks a dividend for shareholders. We put all the money we get into sport; it is as simple as that.

I reiterate that our priority is player development. We played 150 international matches last year. We have a huge player development programme and emerging talent all over the country. In the nine years I have been in my post, with the support of my board, I have run a considerable number of social programmes. I do not want to lose those. Consider what would occur if I had a priority list. The Irish public ultimately wants to see a national team doing well. Last night was evidence of that. Had we won by two goals to one, today would be a different day for me.

If we end up losing alcohol industry sponsorship, it will mean taking money from our programmes, which will have a greater damaging effect on the community. That is the point I am trying to put across. Generally, we do not sell alcohol in general admission areas in the Aviva Stadium. It is sold only in the premium levels. That is an Aviva rule for competitive matches. Only soft drinks would be sold in the general admission areas for competitive matches.