Sporting Events 'Free' On Irish TV

Forthcoming free-to-air events in the Irish Republic have been revealed.

Dublin Communications Minister Eamon Ryan announced the list of events he proposes to designate as of "major importance to society", thus making them free-to-air for Irish television viewers.

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

The proposed additional events are Gaelic Games - Provincial Finals in the Senior Football and Hurling Championships, including the All Ireland Championship Senior Football and Hurling Quarter finals and Semi finals and in Rugby - Ireland's games in the Six Nations Rugby Football Championship (move from deferred to live basis).

He also signalled that the European Rugby Cup (qualifiers - pre quarter final stages - quarter finals, semi finals and final when an Irish team is participating) live programming would be added too as well as the Cheltenham Horseracing 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."

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

Therefore, advertisements will appear in national newspapers soon, with the consultation process ending on June 4 and the list will then go to the European Commission for final approval.

(BMcC)