From Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media
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The Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Mr. Shane Ross, TD, and the Minister with responsibility for Sport, Mr. Brendan Griffin, TD, have today wished Joe Schmidt well as he announced he will step down as Ireland’s head coach after next year’s World Cup in Japan and congratulated Andy Farrell on his upcoming appointment as head coach.
Minister Ross said “I want to wish Joe Schmidt the very best and to acknowledge the hard work and commitment he has given to Irish rugby since he replaced Declan Kidney in 2013. Joe started his campaign with Irish rugby by winning back to back Six Nations titles in 2014 and 2015 and most recently beating the All Blacks for the first time on home soil. I wish Joe and his team every success in the upcoming Six Nations campaign and the World Cup in Japan next year. The team will be in good hands with incoming head Coach Andy Farrell. ”
Minister of State Griffin said "I would like to thank Joe Schmidt for his commitment to Irish Rugby since his arrival. He has given the Irish nation some very happy memories with a Grand Slam title, two historic wins against New Zealand and numerous other major victories. We are all looking forward to the World Cup campaign in Japan and hope that it will be a great success for Joe and his team. In the meantime, I wish Joe all the best in his final year as head coach."
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