Robert O'Donoghue (Dublin Fingal West, Labour)
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308. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the steps his Department is taking to ensure that all State-funded sporting bodies have robust safeguarding protocols in place; that all bodies are fully accountable to the Oireachtas; and that all bodies operate with transparent compliance timelines, in light of recent controversies at the Football Association of Ireland. [52488/25]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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There is simply no place for abuse of any kind in sport and there should be zero tolerance for any actions that endanger welfare, whether for players, coaches or those who work for and support sports across the country.

It is vital then when concerns and complaints are raised that they are taken seriously and dealt with in an appropriate and sensitive manner.

Sport Ireland works with National Governing Bodies of Sport (NGBs) to ensure that appropriate policies are put in place to take a proactive approach to safeguarding by identifying and mitigating risks to player welfare. It also works with NGBs to ensure mechanisms are in place to appropriately react to and handle complaints or issues when they arise.

In this regard, Sport Ireland has an extensive suite of Guidelines and Codes of Practice for the protection of children in sport, consistent with child protection guidance and legislation. Last year, Sport Ireland wrote to all NGBs to remind them of their responsibilities and that their policies and procedures regarding player welfare must be up to date and fit for purpose.

In August 2023, a new national Code of Conduct template for sporting organisations was launched by Sport Ireland. The Code of Conduct template sets out a set of guidelines and principles that promotes the behaviour and conduct expected from our athletes, coaches, parents/guardians, supporters, referees/officials, and club members. All NGBs were asked to use the national template Code of Conduct as an opportunity to review their existing policies and procedures for handling code breaches to ensure that we have a safe and respectful environment for all involved in Irish sport.

Furthermore, Sport Ireland is conducting further research in the area of adult safeguarding which may inform future guidance.

Ultimately, NGBs are independent autonomous organisations responsible for their own governance including safeguarding procedures and disciplinary and complaints processes. In this regard, I would urge anyone who experienced harm or abuse from Irish football or who wishes to report issues related to abuse or inappropriate or unlawful behaviours, to contact the FAI’s independent complaints handling service, Raiseaconcern.