Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Wednesday, 11 May 2022

Joint Committee on Tourism, Culture, Arts, Sport And Media

Elimination of Abuse Directed Toward Referees, Officials, and Players in Sport: Discussion

Dr. Una May:

Some of them have taken it seriously. The committee received submissions from them. The IRFU is a good example, as it has taken the matter seriously. Its Spirit of Rugby Charter is a powerful example. In terms of funding for coaches, referees, other officials and so on, it is difficult to direct specific funding down to that level within an NGB.

What they have done is invest in Spirit of Rugby officials in all the provinces. That is a very good example of how you can, slowly but surely. Their initiative incorporates the sort of signage Ms O'Connor was alluding to around respect on the pitch, at the event and at the venue, so it covers everything from player behaviour through to anyone who walks through the gate being expected to adhere to the basic, fundamental behaviours, especially around respect.

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