Taoiseach and FG welcome 2012 London Olympics

The Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has welcomed the successful London Olympics bid.

Mr Ahern said: "On behalf of the Irish Government, I wish to convey heartiest congratulations to the UK government on London's successful bid to host the 2012 Olympic Games.

"It is great news, not just for London but, for the rest of the country, and as near neighbours we in Ireland share in the celebration.

"Ireland and the UK both have a great passion for sport, and indeed Irish people have a special interest in sporting matters across the water.

The fact that the Olympic Games are coming to London will have positive repercussions right across these islands, and I would like to assure my UK colleagues of any support or assistance that we can provide here in Ireland.

"The Irish Government has invested heavily in the provision of high quality sports facilities, catering for a wide variety of sports, right across the country.

"Ireland can contribute enormously to the success of the London Games through the availability here of excellent competition and training facilities not just for our own athletes, but also for competitors from countries throughout the world in the build-up to 2012. "

Fine Gael Sports Spokesperson Jimmy Deenihan claimed London’s victory brought with it a unique opportunity for Ireland and Irish sport.

“I am delighted that London’s Olympic bid has been a success,” he said.

“It’s a great chance for other countries to stay here and to use our sporting facilities, which should be much improved by the time of the 2012 games.

“Not only that but it will mean that more Irish people than ever before will be able to attend the Olympics and see the events. The proximity of the games will be an exciting way to engage our young people in sport and many will have the opportunity to see the world’s top athletes in action first hand.”