The recent successes of the Irish national team, including the defeat of the world champions, Australia, as well as the outstanding performances of the provincial teams, typified recently by the Boy's Own heroics of Munster against Gloucester and the unbeaten run of Leinster in the European Cup, are examples of what has been achieved by the IRFU in these difficult times. We should also not forget the high quality performances in Europe this year by Connacht. The success of Ireland's rugby teams in international competitions is important to us, not just in sporting terms but also in the attendant boost to our spirits and morale. The enormous contribution that sport makes to the economy is not always fully appreciated in the drama and emotion that usually characterise discussions and media coverage of major sports events in Ireland.