Irish rugby plays no small part in the economic arena. An economic impact study commissioned in 1998-99 showed that four international rugby matches played annually in Ireland created at least a €60 million contribution to the economy. More than half of this figure was export revenue generated by overseas visitors. These figures confirm that, given the increase in the number of international test matches and the growing number of European fixtures, rugby is now a major contributor to tourism and the economy. The public relations and promotion for Ireland as a tourist destination through the international activities of Irish rugby have a lasting value.