The Government has said it is open to supporting a Dublin golf course’s bid to host Britain’s Open Championship.

Portmarnock Golf Club has said it is in contact with organisers of the prestigious tournament about the possibility of hosting the tournament in the future.

The oldest golf tournament in the world is officially named ‘The Open Championship’; however, it is often referred to as The British Open outside of the UK to allow other countries distinguish it from their own national championships.

Founded in 1860, it was last held on the island of Ireland when Shane Lowry took home the title at Portrush in County Antrim in 2019.

The 2019 Open Champion Shane Lowry with the Claret Jug at his homecoming event in Clara in Offaly. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile

In a joint statement this afternoon Sports Minister Catherine Martin and Junior Minister Thomas Byrne said they welcomed Portmarnock’s announcement.

“This exciting news has clear potential for sport and tourism on the island of Ireland, and the Department is open to engaging with the club to assess whether Government support would be required to underpin a bid to host such events,” they said.

“The Open is the most iconic of all the golf majors and its hosting in Portrush in 2019 was a tremendous success. Its impact was felt all across the island and we look forward to its return to Portrush in 2025.”

The Open Championship winner Padraig Harrington has a close look at his name on Claret Jug on his arrival home at Weston airport, Leixlip, Co. Kildare, 23-07-2017. Image: Caroline Quinn/SPORTSFILE

The Ministers said the opportunity to host The Open “would further enhance Ireland’s reputation as a world-leading golf destination”.

“The value that this brings to our tourism sector, and to courses, communities and businesses all across the island, is well understood,” they said.

“With over 400 golf courses, and one third of links courses worldwide, Ireland has a deserved reputation as a key global destination for golf.”

They noted that the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor in County Limerick will be “especially significant” for Ireland.

They said officials will “engage positively” with any request for support from Portmarnock.