Government rules out extra Lansdowne funding

SPORTS Minister John O’Donoghue last night ruled out further Government funding for the redevelopment of Lansdowne Road after plans showed that the stadium will cost €70 million more then estimated.

The new 50,000-seater stadium to be used primarily by Ireland's rugby and soccer teams was originally to cost €292 million but has been upgraded by the FAI and IRFU to a superior €365m facility. Although he welcomed the new plans, Mr O'Donoghue said the Government would not be providing any more than its original commitment to the stadium's redevelopment a total of €191m.

"I do welcome the new design. I do welcome the FAI and the IRFU's commitment, but the taxpayers' commitment must remain the same," he said.