Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 October 2022
314. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the details of any engagement she has had with an organisation (details supplied) on foot of recent allegations of competition fixing at Irish dancing events; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51165/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn the first instance, I will put on record that there is no funding regulatory or accreditation role by me as Minister or by my Department or its agencies and the organisation to which the Deputy refers.
I did, however, write to the organisation in question to seek assurances that it is taking timely and transparent steps to restore confidence that fairness is at the heart of all of their competitions to reassure the many families around Ireland and further afield that have a love for Irish dancing.
The organisation has replied advising that it is undertaking an investigation and that, to ensure transparency, the procedures are being overseen by an external independent individual. The organisation has further advised that this process, in accordance with its disciplinary procedure, is ongoing.
