Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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The hosting of major sports events, both participative and spectator sports, can provide a great showcase for Ireland and drive international visitor numbers.  In addition, the media coverage of sports events helps to put Ireland onto travel itineraries as a holiday destination.

I am very supportive of the ongoing efforts of the tourism agencies and the national governing bodies of sport to attract international events.  Any proposal to host an event must be subject to an assessment of the costs/benefits involved in any State financial support, in particular the number of overseas visitors.

As the Deputy may be aware, we hosted the Women’s Rugby World Cup in 2017 and the tournament was a great success.  Ireland will also host four games as part of EURO 2020 in June 2020. In partnership with the FAI and Dublin City Council, we won the bid to host three group games and one round 16 game of EURO 2020 back in 2014. Preparations have been progressing for 18 months with the Dublin Local Organising Committee’s Project Working Group working closely with UEFA and key local and state agencies on all aspects of the hosting. Depending on qualification, up to 160,000 overseas visitors may attend Euro 2020 matches in Dublin.

Dublin also made a successful bid to host the EURO 2020 Televised Qualifying Draw which takes place this December in the Convention Centre – with almost 1,000 guests expected, including over 300 international media from more than 50 countries resulting in global international coverage.

Ireland will also host the UEFA European Under 17 Championships in 2019.

As regard any further events currently being considered, I have asked Fáilte Ireland to reply directly to the Deputy in this regard.  Please contact my private office if you have not received a reply within ten working days.