Forget the Lions, time to answer Ireland’s call and back the World Cup

LEGISLATION is expected before the Dáil shortly that will decide whether or not Ireland’s Rugby World Cup bid in 2023 receives the necessary funding from State coffers. ‘ The Rugby World Cup 2023 Bill’ was proposed by Attorney General Marie Whelan earlier this month on grounds that finance from the public purse would be needed for the bid’s application process.

It’s thought upwards of €350 million will be required to help overcome the challenge of rival bidders, South Africa and France before the November decision is made.

But while the legislation is widely expected to pass without difficulty, this week former Tánaiste Dick Spring – an Oversight Board Member of Ireland’s bid – called on opposition TDs to do the right thing by Ireland and give the green light for such funds. Mr Spring fears that the bill may provide a platform for some TDs to question the high costs involved in staging the tournament. This would be a fundamental mistake on many levels.

Yes, these are stringent times financially for the State: uncertainty over Brexit, a housing crises and there is never enough funds to shore up our health system. But the benefits of staging the Rugby World Cup would far outweigh such costs and concerns.

The chances of Ireland staging the Olympics or Soccer World Cup simply aren’t tenable but Rugby’s showcase event is a realistic prospect.

Forget how the British and Irish Lions have so far performed against the All-Blacks, for a small island Ireland punches well above its own weight, with strong provincial teams and an ultra-competitive national side which notched up a memorable victory over New Zealand in Chicago.

Conservative estimates suggest that over €800 million would be generated for the Irish economy if the World Cup bid is successful, with two million match tickets potentially being sold. Moreover, the competition represents a golden opportunity for us to showcase all we have to offer in terms of tourism – a proposition that would continue to return a dividend long after the tournament is over.

But there is also a wider cultural aspect. It’s not that long ago when rugby and the GAA were diametrically opposed symbols of Ireland’s sporting divide. Not anymore. As part of Ireland’s bid, eight of the 10 stadiums listed to host games are GAA grounds

There is also a further caveat in Ireland’s favour. World Rugby officials are currently investing a great deal of time and effort in promoting the game in north America and Ireland’s strong links with this part of the world is being touted as a major plus in our application. Add in the fact that the other nations bidding for the tournament have already staged the showcase and Ireland should be in pole position when it comes to the November announcement.

In short, without this new legislation, Ireland’s World Cup bid is effectively over before it has properly begun.

There’s a time and a place for political grandstanding. But this should never be at the cost of positively promoting Ireland and all we have to offer.