Joanna Byrne (Louth, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The FAI has worked tremendously hard in recent years to enhance its reputation as a trusted and respected brand. It has an ambitious facilities development and investment strategy that commits to raising standards within grassroots and recreational football. With nearly 1,200 grassroots clubs and more than 220,000 registered players over 75 leagues, the numbers speak for themselves. Participation and the potential are ever growing. I welcome the Minister of State's contribution today, but kicking the ball down the field and delaying State funding for League of Ireland academies, as was referred to in an interview with the Minister, Deputy O'Donovan, last week, is not an option. As a nation, we are falling short on all fronts when it comes to recognising the potential League of Ireland clubs and grassroots football can bring. The fate of our senior international teams, both male and female, relies on our delivering a fitting future for every boy and girl who enters their own field of dreams. I implore the Minister and the Minister of State to make their mark, be the voice for youth football in Ireland and continue to support the FAI in its endeavours to harness the academies to develop a full-time football industry. I look forward to working with them both in the future to that end.

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