Kildare South Fine Gael TD Martin Heydon has welcomed the announcement by Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Denis Naughten that he has designated the All-Ireland Senior Ladies Gaelic Football and Camogie Final as ‘events of major importance to society’. The designation by Minister Naughten will ensure that these events remain available on a Free-to-Air and live basis for Irish television viewers.
“This designation, which will be put before the Houses of the Oireachtas after the summer recess for ratification ,is strong recognition of the growing importance of ladies football and camogie and confirmation of the finals as events of national importance. The decision has already been approved by Cabinet.
“Ensuring the finals remain free to view will guarantee that they will be available for young and old to watch and contribute to the growing importance of these sports and their equal recognition in our culture.
The Broadcasting Act 2009 provides that the Minister may, by Order, designate certain sporting and cultural events of major importance to society to ensure these events are freely available on national television. In accordance with the legislation, a review of the list of designated events takes place every three years. Arising from the current review, the Minister took the decision to designate the All-Ireland Senior Ladies Gaelic Football and Camogie Finals as ‘events of major importance to society’ thereby adding these to the existing list of designated events.