The Republic of Ireland Women’s Football Team were honoured by the Government last night as they prepare for their final game in Dublin tomorrow against France, and then their departure for the World Cup Finals in Australia.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Tanaiste Micheál Martin were joined by Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media Catherine Martin and Minister of State for Sport and Physical Education Thomas Byrne at a special event in Farmleigh House.
Head Coach Vera Pauw and the full travelling squad were there, together with officials from the FAI, and there was extra good news in the confirmation that an additional €500,000 would be provided to the FAI through Sport Ireland specifically earmarked for grassroots girls, recreational women’s and Football Women Leadership programmes.
These will help secure a long-term legacy after the achievement of the team in making it to a first major tournament.
“As our Ireland Women’s National Team prepare for their final World Cup preparation game on home soil, against France in Tallaght Stadium on Thursday night, it is fantastic that they would be celebrated by the Government in such a way which clearly means a lot to the Association,” said FAI CEO Jonathan Hill.
“The announcement of additional funding is a great step forward in our ongoing work to fulfil the potential of football for women and girls in Ireland and it will help to build on the legacy that our current Women’s Team are creating.”
Sport for Business Perspective:
The rollercoaster week continues for Vera Pauw. Yesterday we wrote of the hard time she is facing having to continue to answer anonymous allegations from the United States, none of which have been backed up with evidence but all of which are wearing. We can only hope she is not accused of having upset someone by taking a chair in the picture above.
On a positive note though the additional funding will go to good use in creating the lasting legacy that the team deserves to leave behind. In the aftermath of Australia, we will look in detail at where it will be going and how it will be put to good use.
