Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy mentioned the six-all arrangement. It is obvious that there are still some reactionary forces in the FAI. They are not in favour of this arrangement. That is coming up on 6 July. I do not think the delay is due to any sinister reasons, but, rather, to Covid. We must be aware that there are still people in the FAI who are trying to delay the reforms, and I am determined that should not happen. We should remember that the money the Government is giving the FAI, which is the Deputy's money and that of other taxpayers, is conditional upon a reformed organisation.

The Deputy also asked whether the memorandum of understanding was Government backed. Yes, it is. I see no reason it should be withdrawn or why there should be any give in that regard. I cannot say what the new Government will do but I can say what this Government is doing. The memorandum of understanding is totally backed by the Government. The FIFA representative was there when it was signed, which is a sign of approval. The deal was done by four bodies, with the support of the Bank of Ireland, the FAI and FIFA.

I think the memorandum of understanding is rock solid and it will remain so.

See this speech in context