Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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We can bid for the commercial rights if we want to, although I cannot say if we have or will do so, what we are paying or anything of that nature. It is then up to us to decide what we do with the rights. We would have an option to sell them on if we so wished. It is a commercial decision.

Deputy Barry asked about upgrades to stadiums. The upgrades would be temporary to allow the stadiums in question to host games, in other words, they would involve upgrading facilities. This will have legacy benefits. The tournament budget provides for investment in approximately 40 training facilities nationwide for visiting teams. Many of these facilities will be in existing clubs, both rugby and other sports, which will leave a legacy of improved facilities for the clubs in question. The tournament budget will also provide for a legacy programme for the development of the sport. Although some temporary facilities will be developed in host stadiums, the permanent facilities, for example, floodlights, will leave a positive legacy for the stadiums. There will also be a legacy of long-term benefit for tourism from the profile and prospect of repeat visits.

Deputy Barry also asked a question on ticket prices, an issue I addressed in the most specific manner possible. We hope to benefit in the long term in many of the ways to which I referred. We will provide permanent facilities such as broadband and other infrastructure which will be necessary for the Rugby World Cup.