Published on Wednesday23rdAugust2017

Naughten adds Camogie and Football Finals to the ‘free-to-air television’ list

20170823 Naughten FTA

Minister Naughten is pictured with Camogie player Miriam Frisby from Kilkenny Panel and Ladies Gaelic Player, Sarah Rowe from Mayo Panel

Communications Minister Denis Naughten is pleased to announce that he has designated the All-Ireland Senior Ladies Gaelic Football and Camogie Final as ‘events of major importance to society’. The designation by Minister Naughten will ensure that these events remain available on a Free-to-Air and live basis for Irish television viewers.

Minister Naughten said:

While the designation guarantees that these events must be freely available on television, it also confirms that they are of special resonance and have a distinct cultural importance for the people of Ireland. I have always been adamant that ladies football and camogie be treated equally with men’s football and hurling and today’s announcement recognises that equality. There is no doubt in my mind that ladies GAA sporting heroes have become solid role models for young girls growing up in Ireland. GAA is part of our DNA as a country so it is only right that everyone gets to enjoy the female and male finals equally – either live in Croke Park or at home on television on a free-to-air basis.

The Minister’s Designation has now received approval from the European Commission in accordance with the Audiovisual Media Services Directive and will be put before both Houses of the Oireachtas for a resolution on return from Summer recess.