FAI and IRFU Present Stadium Feasibility Study

A joint delegation from the IRFU and FAI has presented the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, Mr John O’Donoghue TD, with the results of a feasibility study into the building of a 65,000 all-seater stadium. The results of the study were presented yesterday (Tuesday 15th April) with the IRFU delegation headed by Chief Executive, Phillip Browne who was accompanied at the meeting by IRFU President, Don Crowley, Hon. Treasurer, John Lyons and Committee member Noel Murphy. A statement issued read;
At the request of the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, Mr John O’Donoghue TD, the FAI and IRFU were asked to undertake a feasibility study into the building of a 65,000 all-seater stadium in a number of possible locations in Dublin.

A joint delegation from both sporting bodies presented the Minister with the results of the study today. These included a technical assessment of five sites, a project programme, an analysis of construction costs, the estimated funding requirements and the potential contribution from the sporting
bodies.

The results of the study presented to the Minister today included both Lansdowne Road and Abbotstown as feasible options for the location of a new stadium.

During its presentation the delegation indicated that over a six-year
period the net cost of the project would be between 353m and 397m, which takes account of a contribution from the IRFU and the FAI of 118.5 m, depending on site. This figures includes an estimate for VAT of up to 71m. It was also stressed that in a project of this size an additional 85m to
100m through employment and other taxes will be returned to the exchequer.
It was pointed out that for a recent International match over 50m was generated in the economy and that this figure could be significantly
increased with increased capacity and improved facilities.

The delegation also discussed with the Minister the significant
ongoing employment and social benefits accruing to the community in the future running of a new stadium, which it said was now more necessary than ever with ever increasing demand for International matches involving both sporting organisations.