Dervish, this years Irish Eurovision entry, are outsiders to win the contest this year at 50/1 in overall betting odds. But should they win, Ireland will have to choose a venue other than the historical Point Theatre that has already hosted the Eurovision Song Contest in 1994, 1995, and 1997. Point Theatre will be closed this summer when redevelopment works will begin.

The venue of the Point Theatre is to be redeveloped to createa complex covering afive hectare site surrounding the Point Theatre. The complex will include a shopping centre, offices, a number of hotels, a 12 screen cinema, and a train station. Also a new -120 metres high- skyscraper is to be built, which will include a bar and restraunt on top, along with a viewing platform and some of Dublins most luxurious apartments.

The best ofthis €800m. projectfrom a Eurovision perspective is a state-of-the-art 14,000 seater amphitheatre which will boast facilities which are unequalled in Ireland. Under the name Point depot, it will be one of the largest fixed venues in Europe. Could this be a sign that Ireland has high hopes for Eurovision again? Most likely higher hopes for next year, as this extraordinary venue won't be finished until 2009.

Ireland's Dervish, have just come back from their American tour. As they are already qualified to the Final, Ireland will definitely feature in this years final scoreboard.