Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 March 2019
259. Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has had exploratory talks with associations (details supplied) regarding an all-Ireland soccer team in line with the practice of the all-Ireland rugby team; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10984/19]
View answerThe organisation and delivery of sport in Ireland is mainly a matter for National Governing Bodies of Sport (NGBs). NGBs, including those mentioned by the Deputy, are independent and autonomous bodies and any proposals regarding an all-island international team would be a matter for those two organisations.
The organisation of sport on an all-island basis has worked very successfully for a number of sports, most notably in the case of rugby. I am very supportive of cross-border sporting initiatives and collaborations between sporting organisations. Such approaches have excellent potential to enhance relationships on both parts of the island of Ireland. I understand that there are proposals for a competitive football match between the Northern Ireland and Ireland league winners and I would welcome such a development for football.
While proposals regarding an all-island international team would be a matter for the two NGBs, if the organisations were to bring forward any such proposals, my Department and I would be happy to assist them as appropriate.
