Following an initial appointment in November 2001 for a period to the conclusion of the 2004 Six Nations, and then in September 2003 for a four-year period to include the 2007 Rugby World Cup and the 2008 Six Nations championship, the IRFU has now invited Eddie O'Sullivan to continue in the role for another four-year cycle, encompassing the 2011 Rugby World Cup and the 2012 Six Nations championship.

Philip Browne, Chief Executive of the IRFU, said today: "We are delighted to come to agreement with Eddie O'Sullivan that he should continue as National coach for a further four-year period. As in pre-World Cup 2003, we believe today's announcement is a timely indication of our faith and confidence in the National coach and his playing squad as they are in final preparations for the upcoming World Cup in France. We wish him, his management team and playing squad every success."

Ireland coach Eddie O'Sullivan said: "I am deeply honoured that the Appointments Committee of the IRFU should see fit to give me a further extension in my role as National coach at this time. I see it as a timely vote of confidence in me and my coaching staff at a critical point when we are about to embark on our World Cup challenge.

"Another four years at the helm further helps me to plan a strategy for the National squad into the long term future and that is vital if we are to achieve all our shared ambitions for Irish rugby."