Can anyone give me a good reason for the euro 2008 1/4 bid by Ireland?

I can't see how irish football will benefit from hosting 1 group & a couple of knockout games.

Scotland want to host as a means of getting govt funds to upgrade their stadiums & give the scottish leage a lift & only dragged the FAI in when they couldn't afford 8 stadiums.

I see it as only an excuse for the suits & ppoliticians to get a few days out & can't see any extra people drawn to the eL. French football has taken off since their WC but thats more to do with huge investment in facilities & winning the competition.

IMO we not ready for a major championship yet.