Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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Question 48: To ask the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position regarding the redevelopment of Lansdowne Road; the latest timetable for the planning and construction process for the new National Stadium; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34826/06]

John O'Donoghue (Kerry South, Fianna Fail)
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In January 2004, the Government agreed to provide funding of €191million, phased over 5 years, to the joint IRFU/FAI project for the redevelopment of Lansdowne Road Stadium as a 50,000-seat stadium. The estimated total cost of the project is €365m and the IRFU and FAI will provide the balance of €174m. On 31 July 2006, Dublin City Council granted planning permission for the project, subject to a number of conditions. A number of appeals against the granting of planning permission have been lodged by local residents and it is understood that An Bord Pleanála intends to schedule an oral hearing to deal with these appeals although a date has yet to be set for such a hearing. Subject to the outcome of the planning process, it is intended that construction should commence early in 2007. I look forward to the completion of this much needed new Stadium which will be a welcome flagship facility for rugby and soccer.