Ahern unsure of need for second stadium

The Taoiseach has reacted cautiously to the FAI's plans for a £65 million stadium in west Dublin.

The Taoiseach has reacted cautiously to the FAI's plans for a £65 million stadium in west Dublin.

"I know the FAI has been considering a plan for some years, and I was aware they were going to make the announcement. Needless to say, I wish them well because any sports facility is welcome," said Mr Ahern.

"It is clear, however, that a venue which can stage the major events which attract large crowds and allow for the subsidising of other events is needed. Given that there are only a few rugby and soccer internationals and large concerts, I am not too sure the way to go in the future is having them at different venues."

At the end of his Middle East tour yesterday, he told journalists that the international feasibility study being carried out by the Government-appointed committee on a proposed national sports stadium would continue.

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Michael O'Regan

Michael O'Regan

Michael O’Regan is a former parliamentary correspondent of The Irish Times