John Curran (Dublin Mid West, Fianna Fail)
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1615. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport further to his recent comments on the sport of mixed martial arts, the process and timeframe involved in regulating this sport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1872/17]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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Sport Ireland is the Government's agency responsible for engaging with National Governing Bodies of Sport (NGBs).  Sport Ireland has a process for recognising NGBs.  The NGB recognition process is rigorous and focusses on relevant matters including governance, safety and child protection.  Regarding Mixed Martial Arts, Sport Ireland is continuing its engagement with martial arts representatives with a view to the establishment of appropriate governance arrangements for mixed martial arts.  While I am keen that this should proceed as quickly as possible, the process is a detailed and rigorous one and it is not possible in these circumstances to determine a precise timescale for its completion. My Department is maintaining regular contact with Sport Ireland to keep abreast of developments.