Emergency legislation to empower the Government to underwrite the €320-€340 million costs of the Rugby World Cup was necessary after the former attorney general Máire Whelan changed her mind about the legal requirements.

It has emerged that in February Ms Whelan advised the Government that legislation would not be needed to enable the State to underwrite the bid.

However, in early May, her office advised the Government that legislation would be required, and officials were asked to draft a Bill. Last night the Bill was rushed through the Dáil in three hours.

As part of its support for the IRFU’s bid to host the 2023 World Cup, the Government has committed to underwriting the costs of staging the tournament, estimated at €200 million, and the tournament fee required by World Rugby, which amounts to €138 million. It has also promised “public sector supports” such as policing.

July deadline

Minister for Sport Shane Ross last night assured the Dáil that the tournament was expected to be profitable and no ultimate exposure to the taxpayer would arise.

Most deputies spoke in support of the tournament but asked for more details about the possible financial exposure to the State.

Green Party leader Eamon Ryan said that the Government should insist games are broadcast free to air. “I want to see it come,” he said. “But I don’t want it to be a blank cheque.”

France and South Africa are also bidding to host the tournament. A decision will be made in November.