Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 June 2026
90. Deputy Sinéad Gibney asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport whether his Department has engaged with relevant bodies under his aegis over the financial implications of the cancellation of the Ireland Israel fixtures or refusal to broadcast them should they go ahead; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44494/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Irish people are deeply concerned about the conflict in the Middle East and Gulf region, particularly the situation in Palestine. The Government remains committed to working with key partners to end the conflict and to advancing a sustainable peace plan.
The Government has taken a strong stance in respect of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Ireland has intervened in the South African case at the International Court of Justice. We have recognised the State of Palestine. We are legislating against the import of goods from the Occupied Territories.
Israeli actions in Palestine consistently contravene international law and the Government continues to press for appropriate action, both at EU and international level, in response to egregious Israeli breaches of human rights and democratic principles.
There have been many calls for Irish sports organisations to boycott or exclude Israel from international sporting competitions, in the context of the conflict in Gaza. These include calls on the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) not to fulfil its UEFA Nations League fixtures against Israel this Autumn. There has been extensive recent debate in this House on this topic in the last couple of days.
Any official boycott, or cancellation of the fixture, would set a dangerous precedent with wider implications that are not realistic or reasonable in the sporting landscape, especially ahead of the Olympics in Los Angles in 2028.
National Governing Bodies of sport (NGBs), such as the FAI, are independent, autonomous bodies responsible for the governance of their own sports, including the organisation of sporting fixtures, whether in domestic or international competitions.
Neither the Government, my Department nor Sport Ireland have a role in determining or supporting the organisation of such fixtures, nor in any arrangements to broadcast them.
The FAI has stated that it intends to fulfil both fixtures against Israel in accordance with its obligations as a member of UEFA. Where such fixtures take place is ultimately a matter for the FAI and UEFA.
As Minister with responsibility for Sport, I have no role in how NGBs organise their sports or in their day-to-day operational functions and it would not be appropriate for me to intervene in matters such as this.
