Pat Moylan (Fianna Fail)

I will be brief, but wish to make a few points on this important issue. I compliment the Fine Gael group on its Private Members' motion. We have a right to vote against the motion of any party but I do not think we have the right to oppose its choice of topic. I take a dim view of the expressions of a particular Member to that effect earlier. It left a lot to be desired.

Players in the west and the midlands should have the right to their aims and aspirations in getting to the top in the game of rugby. I compliment the current rugby stars for what they are doing at national level. This evening we are trying to influence the IRFU to make the right decision on professional rugby in Connacht.

While personally my commitment has been to the GAA, I compliment those who are involved in promoting rugby among young people. If those young people were not involved in playing rugby or some other sport, we would have far greater problems. It must be acknowledged that the State currently spends very little on this great work.

Rugby is a great spectator sport with a high tally of scores. It is important that we record some of the points put to us by the Connacht branch of the IRFU last week when we met them in Buswells Hotel. The IRFU is a 32-county organisation charged with promoting, fostering and developing the game in all four provinces. That must be recognised. Why is it considering taking professional status from Connacht? It would be very wrong to do so.

The development plan objectives for 2000-05 have all been met on target in Connacht. The senior team has had a 60% success rate. The branch has developed the local grounds and infrastructure and increased the player base as well as the number of clubs and schools. Previous speakers have also outlined this.