Ruairi Ó Murchú (Louth, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

This is a straightforward ask. The Irish Mixed Martial Arts Association, IMMAA, which was established in 2017, needs a roadmap in order to get recognition as a national governing body. It has engaged with the Executive in the North, including the former Minister, Ms Carál Ní Chuilín, and the Minister for Communities, Ms Deirdre Hargey. Its engagement in the North has been successful but it wants recognition on an all-Ireland basis. We had the tragic death of João Carvalho. The coroner's report was issued and the recommendations, including the introduction of standardised safety procedures and protocols to mixed martial arts, MMA, events, need to be observed. At this point, the IMMAA is stuck. Deputy Andrews and I will engage with all the stakeholders, which include Sport Ireland, but we need the support of the Government.

My knowledge of and interaction with martial arts and, later, MMA comes through my son. He started with kick-boxing before moving on to boxing, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Thai boxing and then an element of MMA with Sanda MMA and Team Torres. My stepson and I still train with Team Torres. We do Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Unlike my 16-year-old, I was not particularly good but I was always up for it. It provides resilience, fitness and training, particularly for young people who do not necessarily like other sports. It is absolutely necessary that we facilitate this organisation.

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