Michael Finucane (Fine Gael)

In 2003, Deputy Dermot Ahern, then the Minister responsible, designated sporting events which were free to air. In recent times there was a debate focused on that issue, with the Ryder Cup coming to this country. The competition will cost approximately €15 million but will do tremendous work for the general tourism industry in Ireland. The Minister had a consultation process, but in April last, it was announced that the Ryder Cup would not be designated.

We have recently had the Heineken Cup final in rugby. Remarks were made in the House yesterday on what occurred last weekend. I am disappointed having read in newspapers on Monday that last week was the last time the Heineken Cup final would be on free-to-air television. In future, Sky Sports will have exclusive rights. It appears that Rupert Murdoch has won this match as well.

In April 2006, the Minister stated that he had received representations about the Heineken Cup. In that context he did not agree it was important for society. Having attended the match at the weekend with a group from Newcastle West rugby club, and having shared a hotel with a large group from Donegal wearing the Munster colours, it struck me that it was not a Munster event but a national event.