Irish politicians and rugby stars were in London today to make the case for our Rugby World Cup 2023 bid.
We are up against France and South Africa, with the winning bid to be announced in November.
The Government is assuring the taxpayer that paying the tournament fee represents good value for money.
World Rugby would demand a fee of €120 million (€136 million) if Ireland is awarded the tournament.
As the final pitch was made in London, the Taoiseach said the business case is sound considering the bounce the economy would get.
Philip Browne, CEO of the IRFU, said that government guarantee means the tournament is within touching distance.
Brian O'Driscoll and Niamh Briggs were also there to make Ireland's case, while Minister for Sport & Tourism Shane Ross insisted the bid is better than our rivals:
