Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The matter is one for the national governing bodies, the Football Association of Ireland and the Irish Football Association, not the Government. I acknowledge that there has been enhanced co-operation between both football associations in recent years, which was evident last week in the context of the international game held on Thursday night and on Wednesday night at the Co-operation Ireland event which was held in the Mansion House. This co-operation is positive and encouraging.

I take this opportunity to congratulate and thank Mr. Martin O'Neill and Mr. Roy Keane for the service they provided over the last number of years. While recent results have been disappointing, it is important to acknowledge that a number of players were injured and unable to play in the last few games.

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