Taoiseach Simon Harris has expressed his full backing for Senator Tim Lombard’s request that Jarlath Burns, president of the GAA, come to the Seanad to address the concerns regarding the volume of hurling games being broadcast on GAAGo. The pay-per-view service will feature the Munster SHC game between Cork and Limerick at Páirc Uí Chaoimh on Saturday evening. It’s the second consecutive weekend that a Munster or Leinster hurling championship game will not be displayed on conventional television.
During his visit to Corrin Mart in Fermoy, Co Cork, Harris lauded the GAA as an “outstanding body,” but cautioned that they must heed the voice of the “grassroots” concerning paywalls for major matches. He voiced the upset and dissatisfaction of grassroots’ community who find it frustrating that matches children and families want to watch are hidden behind a paywall.
Harris emphasised that the GAA must take these concerns seriously, stating that their strength has always stemmed from their grassroots support. He believes that GAA has made a mistake in this matter and need to review their decisions. Senator Tim Lombard, who accompanied him, has proposed that GAA representatives should be invited to the Oireachtas to discuss this matter, a suggestion Harris concurs with.