THE IRISH taxpayer has been offered yet another opportunity to subvent a major international sporting event. A spokeswoman for the Minister for Tourism and Trade, Mr Kenny, said yesterday he was considering a £2.5 million offer to stage the opening of the 1998 Tour de France cycling race.
Bord Failte said that the former professional cyclist, Sean Kelly, who is from Carrick on Suir, is a key mover behind the project, which would see the opening stage begin in Rosslare.
Mr Kenny's spokeswoman said: "We have to identify the tangible tourism benefit would accrue as a result of the expenditure." Tour de France organisers ask towns for about £75,000 to host the start or finish of a stage.
The Minister's also considering a resumption of taxpayer support for the 1998 World Equestrian Games, which will cost £10.9 million, after the emergence of an as yet unnamed international sponsor.
Mr Kenny announced last month that Government support to stage the games was being withdrawn because the organisers had failed to find a sponsor. The taxpayers, through Bord Failte, have already invested £500,000 in the project.
The Government will also have to consider whether it is worth £3 million to fund next year's Eurovision Song Contest.
Last night, a spokesman for the National Basketball Arena in Tallaght said it should be considered as the venue for the contest - if it comes to Ireland.
"Dublin has successfully hosted the event in the Gaiety Theatre, the RDS and the Point Depot. Millstreet has demonstrated what a rural community can do. Perhaps it is time for a suburban community to get a chance", the spokesman said.