World Rally Championship funding
Deputy Healy-Rae sought €15 million in support to host the World Rally Championship in Ireland. The Taoiseach said the proposal was with the Department and officials were assessing what contribution would be appropriate.
The major sports events unit of the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media is looking at a request for €15 million in funding to host the FIA World Rally Championship here in 2025 to 2027. Motorsport Ireland has identified the excellent locations of County Kerry, of course, as well as counties Limerick and Waterford. This will bring a €300 million return to local economies in the host regions. We earnestly seek the necessary Government support and funding to make this world rally championship event happen here. We will give the Taoiseach a drive in a rally car and everything if he secures the funding for us.
Comment on this
I understand that submission is currently with the Department and officials are going over the numbers to see what level of contribution would be appropriate. I will mention to the Minister of State, Deputy Byrne, and the Minister, Deputy Martin, that it was raised in the Chamber today.