Padraigh Harrington with the Irish Open trophy last year

Padraig Harrington believes that the Irish Open should be played in Northern Ireland in the near future.

The Irish Open is being played this week at Adare Manor and organisers are hoping to rejuvenate an event that has slipped in prestige in recent years.

Defending champion Harrington says a move north could be the answer.

"If I was running the event, it would be up north - definitely. It would be a tremendous event. There is a great golfing public up there," he said.

Harrington added that Royal Portrush would be an "ideal" venue for the event.

"But there are plenty of good golf courses there," the Open champion continued.