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GAA Go: Minister says it would be 'inappropriate' for her to comment on controversy

It comes after strong criticism of the GAA Go app, with fans angry that key matches are not available on television
Jack Quann
Jack Quann

10.47 13 May 2023


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GAA Go: Minister says it would...

GAA Go: Minister says it would be 'inappropriate' for her to comment on controversy

Jack Quann
Jack Quann

10.47 13 May 2023


Share this article


The Sport and Media Minister has said it would not be appropriate for her to engage with either the GAA or RTÉ on the GAA Go controversy.

Catherine Martin has said it was a "commercial decision for the GAA" which matches are shown free to air and those put behind a paywall.

It comes after strong criticism of the GAA Go app, with fans angry that key matches are not available on television.

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The GAA will broadcast the Waterford vs Clare and Cavan vs Laois matches behind the paywall this weekend.

Pennants at Dublin's Croke Park in March 2009 Pennants at Dublin's Croke Park in March 2009. Picture by: J Orr / Alamy Stock Photo

The GAA and RTÉ have been accused of exploiting hurling, by choosing high-profile games for the service.

Age Action has also criticised the organisation for creating an "invisible barrier" for older people.

The controversy has led TDs to invite both RTÉ and the GAA before the Oireachtas Sport Committee.

This year there are 38 championship games being broadcast exclusively on the service, while 31 are being shown free-to-air on RTÉ.

satirical news sketch The RTE Montrose campus in Donnybrook, Dublin in 2009. Picture by: Mark Stedman/RollingNews.ie

Minister Martin has said talking to either organisation about the streaming platform would be 'inappropriate'.

"I'd just be cautious myself, not only as Minister for Sport but Minister for Media, I don't think it would be appropriate for me to comment on the commercial decisions of the GAA or RTÉ," she said.

Minister Martin said she welcomes a commitment to review the streaming service at the end of the season.

"We all want to see as many matches as possible," she said.

"There's a great love for the sport, but - as the Taoiseach said earlier in the week - it's not possible to see all the matches.

"But I'm glad that they're going to do a review at the end of the season," she added.

Reporting by: Claire McNamara

Main image: Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin at the National Museum of Ireland, Dublin in April 2021. Picture by: Leon Farrell / Photocall Ireland

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Catherine Martin Commercial Decision GAA GAA Go Controversy Oireachtas Sport Committee Paywall RTE Sport And Media Minister

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