Here's a transcript of a question from Eoghan Murphy, Dublin south east TD, on Ireland's hosting of the 2023 Rugby World and the popularity of the game in general in Ireland at the moment. Not only am I firmly convinced that these guys will mess up what should be a slam dunk for Ireland, but reading this chit-chat - complete with Varadkar trolling as if he was back in the back of the classsroom- makes me question my allegiance to the game.
Deputy Eoghan Murphy: I thank the Minister for his reply. Irish international rugby is only getting stronger and domestically the game is coming on in leaps and bounds, particularly when one considers the school games. On Sunday recently, I attended the Leinster junior schools’ rugby final in which St. Michael’s College beat Newbridge College. I offer my commiserations to Deputy Lawlor who is sitting beside me and who attended Newbridge College on behalf of myself and Deputy Boyd Barrett who also went to St. Michael’s.
Deputy Timmy Dooley: The Deputies certainly deviated in the political paths they chose after that.
Deputy Leo Varadkar: Who paid Deputy Boyd Barrett’s fees?
Deputy Eoghan Murphy: I know he would like to join me in congratulating St. Michael’s on securing the double in winning both the senior and junior titles, a rare achievement. The idea the boys who played in Sunday’s match and the senior cup final could perhaps tog out in the green jersey for a world cup on Irish soil is an inspiring idea. It is certainly a project we should be working hard on with the IRFU.
Deputy Michael Ring: The Minister and I will meet with the IRFU shortly. It is a matter for the union to make the bid. Japan will host the Rugby World Cup in 2019 and must give a guarantee of €115 million. In 2023, that figure could well be €125 million. Also%
