Olympic Games Ticketing Arrangements

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 March 2017

Tuesday, 21 March 2017

Questions (1236)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

1236. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport further to Parliamentary Question No. 421 of 23 February 2017, if he will ensure that the internal report by the Olympic Council of Ireland into ticketing arrangements at the Rio Olympic Games is completed; the costs to date regarding the Olympic Council of Ireland internal report; if he has consulted with the new president of the Olympic Council of Ireland (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14107/17]

Written answers

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

Sporting organisations, including the Olympic Council of Ireland, are independent, autonomous bodies. I have no role in, or responsibility for, operational matters of sporting organisations. Consequently, I have not engaged with the new President of the Olympic Council of Ireland or the OCI in relation to their internal report into ticketing arrangements at the Rio Olympic Games.

The Deputy is aware, however, that an inquiry has been established by my Department to inquire into the circumstances surrounding the distribution of tickets for the Rio Olympic Games and related matters. This inquiry, which commenced on 19 September 2016, is being led by former High Court judge, Mr Justice Carroll Moran. It is expected that Judge Carroll Moran will present his report by the end of this month. Subject to consideration of any legal issues that may arise, it is expected that the report would be published shortly thereafter.