Chris Andrews (Dublin Bay South, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

While I welcome the establishment of a working group on this issue, I really do feel that the process is being used to block recognition of the IMMAA. It is only through meaningful engagement that we will see the IMMAA progress towards NGB status under Sport Ireland. This would give people involved in this sport and those representing Ireland internationally the recognition they deserve and show that their sport is being treated equally. However, I have deep concerns as to how genuine these engagements will be when language such as the following is being used by some of those centrally involved in the application process. This information was obtained through a freedom of information request. It was said that MMA, in its current form, is not a sport, and, like dog fighting, did not deserve to be legitimised. Another comment described amateur MMA as "pornographic, sadistic and voyeuristic to its core." Does the Minister of State believe that is appropriate language to use in describing MMA and those who represent Ireland internationally? There is an element of snobbery involved. The old boys' club will not let MMA in.

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