Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Event Ireland has its ear to the ground as regards potential future events that are of interest to Ireland Inc. I am satisfied with its interactions and with my dealings in the Department with the national governing bodies of sport, be they the paralympic movement hoping to host events or any of the other major and smaller bodies. They are all prepared to put their heads above the parapet. They receive State support through Sport Ireland in respect of their basic ongoing needs.

Fáilte Ireland is examining this matter because sports tourism is a multibillion euro industry globally. The events that have already been scheduled to take place - UEFA's Euro 2020 and the Women's Rugby World Cup - and the others that we hope to acquire, for example, the men's Rugby World Cup, are of major significance to the whole island of Ireland. Our Department will continue working with Event Ireland. If people have specific suggestions, we will take them on board.

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