FIFA give Lansdowne seating World Cup all-clear

FOOTBALL's world governing body FIFA have given the all-clear to the FAI to continue using temporary seating at Lansdowne Road for the Republic of Ireland's home qualifying ties for the 2006 World Cup.

The continuing derogation is a significant, if anticipated, financial fillip for Irish soccer, guaranteeing 36,000 attendances for each of the Group 4 qualifiers, which begin in September.

However, FAI chief executive Fran Rooney pointed out last night that the FIFA decision was based on the Government's commitment to the new stadium, further demonstrating the urgency of proceeding with the project.