More free to air sporting events plan
TOP sporting events could be made mandatory free-to-air as part of a new review.
The GAA provincial finals, All-ireland quarter-finals and All-ireland semi-finals, the new UEFA Nations League and all live Six Nations games are among 14 sporting events which may be in the running.
Tanaiste Micheal Martin said: “The review of the list of free-to-air events provides an opportunity to ensure that our most memorable sporting moments are retained on national TV for the people of Ireland to view together on an equal basis.
“Watching sporting or other events of national importance together creates a sense of community and national connectedness and should be accessible to everyone.
“I hope to take this opportunity to deliver on a Programme for Government commitment to increase the visibility of women’s sport.
VALUABLE
“The achievements of our female sporting talent should be available to view on our national broadcasters.”
The men’s events for consideration include:
■ The quarter and semi-finals of the All-ireland Senior Football and Senior Hurling Championships
■ The finals of the Senior Football and Hurling
Provincial Championships
■ Ireland’s games in the UEFA Nations League, and
■ Ireland’s games in the men’s Six Nations Rugby Championship.
The women’s events for consideration include:
■ Ireland’s games in the UEFA Women’s Nations League
■ Ireland’s home and away qualifying games, the opening games, all Ireland’s games, and the semi-finals and final of the FIFA Women’s World Cup Tournament
■ The quarter and semi-finals of the All-ireland Senior Camogie Championship, and the finals of the Provincial Camogie Championship.
■ The quarter and semi-finals of the All-ireland Senior Ladies’ Football Championship.