asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs whether his attention has been drawn to a recent statement, which was made by the outgoing President of the G.A.A. in his address to the association's annual congress, that, on Radio Éireann, English games and activities filled a share of the programmes out of all proportion to their importance and news value, and that Gaelic games on the other hand were grudgingly and inadequately featured; and, if so, if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Radio Éireann G.A.A. Reports.
I have seen the comment the Deputy referred to in his question made by the outgoing President of the G.A.A. at the annual congress of the association this year. I venture to say that the comment expresses the expresident's personal view. That there is another view is evident from a reference made at the same congress to the extensive and liberal notice given to the G.A.A. games by the radio.
The national broadcasting organisation must in its broadcasts cater for the activities of all sections of the community. However, the station has at all times given the utmost prominence to the main national games of hurling and football. The number of commentaries on Gaelic games within the past 12 months was actually twice the number of commentaries given on any other game. It is, of course, the case that the number of G.A.A. games played is greater than that of any other code, but the comparison in regard to the commentaries shows that the G.A.A. games are fully recognised by Radio Éireann. A special weekly survey of Gaelic games played is given every Sunday night and Radio Éireann knows that it is widely appreciated by the G.A.A. membership throughout the country. The only other such regular survey is on soccer and this is much shorter than the G.A.A. survey.
I should add that in arranging for commentaries on Gaelic games Radio Éireann consults the G.A.A. authorities, and I understand that the director has not at any time in recent years had to refuse to have a commentary on any game where it was desired by the G.A.A.