Ryan Calls For More Free-To-Air Sports

The Audio Visual Media Services Directive and Broadcasting Act provides that European Union member states may designate certain sporting and cultural events in order to make them available on free television.

The proposed additional events include:

Gaelic Games - the Provincial Finals in the Senior Football and Hurling Championships and the All Ireland Championship Senior Football and Hurling Quarter Finals and Semi-finals;

Rugby - Ireland's games in the Six Nations Rugby Football Championship and the European Rugby Cup (qualifiers - pre quarter final stages - quarter finals, semi-finals and final when an Irish team is participating); and,

Horse Racing - The Cheltenham Festival.

Minister Ryan said, "These events are part of what we are as a nation and their enjoyment should be available to all. These special events should not be limited to those who have a subscription or pay-per-view service - they warrant the widest possible access for Irish people."

By law, the Minister must consult with the public, organisers of these events and broadcasters before bringing forward the requisite legislative changes.