Home matches put union in black

IRFU agm: The IRFU have announced a surplus for the first time in three years. Last night's agm was told that although just €816,015, it is a significant improvement from last season (€2.8 million deficit) and that of 2003/2004 (€6.25 million).

This was portrayed as a hugely positive development as Irish rugby reaches the halfway point of the strategic-development plan that has seen record investments into the professional game.

The IRFU spent €25 million on the costs of the professional game, an increase of over €2 million from last year. €22 million was spent on player and management costs alone.

Just over €802,000 was spent on the national tours, camps and squad sessions during the season, an increase of almost €300,000 from the previous campaign and only below the expenditure of a World Cup year.

Of the €46.4 million income, €39.4 million came from staging representative matches.

IRFU honorary treasurer John Lyons noted the main revenue was attained by the three internationals during November and another three Six Nations matches. "Increased revenues generated by broadcasting and commercial contracts", aided by the current rude health of the national team, assisted the turnaround, he said.

Not even the loss of €450,000 due to the closure of the north terrace during the November internationals could deny a year in the black.

It was also noted that the redevelopment of Donnybrook and Thomond Park will not affect profit margins, as these ventures are funded by the Leinster and Munster Branches.

While there was positive feedback generally, Browne was forced to admit the embarrassing impasse with Wanderers RFC, over the redevelopment of Lansdowne Road, remained.

When queried about the closure of Lansdowne Road, Browne added: "Lansdowne Road will be closed from January 1st, 2007. The situation will be reviewed in terms of planning results, and the GAA have reserved their position in light of that.

"The two resident clubs have also been made aware that the international ground is to be closed (in 2007)."

Browne estimated the path through objections lodged with An Bord Pleanála will take no more than five months.

Peter Boyle has succeeded Andy Crawford as IRFU president for the coming season.