GAA President invited before Seanad to discuss GAAGO controversy – Lombard

The President of the GAA has been invited before the Seanad to discuss issues of concern regarding subscription service GAAGO broadcasting matches, a Fine Gael Senator has said.

Senator Tim Lombard was speaking after confirmation that major hurling games, including the Cork-Limerick clash this Saturday, will be shown behind a paywall on GAAGO only.

Senator Lombard said: “The lack of hurling matches being screened on RTÉ is a big talking point in Munster and Leinster this week.

“Last year we heard the same concerns from advocacy groups and public representatives about how GAAGO is acting as a barrier to people, particularly vulnerable groups, accessing the matches they have enjoyed for years.

“It’s unbelievable that for the second weekend in a row, if you want to watch a Munster or Leinster hurling championship, you will have to subscribe to the GAAGO streaming service.

“This is frustrating for hurling supporters everywhere and in particular for Cork GAA supporters. The big hurling game this weekend is the Cork versus Limerick clash.

“This is the fourth Munster Senior Hurling Championship round robin fixture to be behind a paywall and unbelievably the third Cork hurling match on GAAGO this season.

“It’s no wonder Cork hurling greats like Tom Kenny, Mark Foley and Dónal Óg Cusack have been speaking out about this.

“I raised this matter in the Seanad this morning and asked the Seanad Cathaoirleach to invite the President of the GAA to appear before the Seanad so that valid concerns and issues can be aired.

“The Seanad Cathaoirleach confirmed that a request is before the Seanad Committee on Parliamentary Privileges and Oversight to invite the President of the GAA to address Seanad Eireann.

“I welcome this as I believe we’re at the point where questions need to be asked about who exactly is benefitting from having these games behind a paywall.

“GAAGO was initially set up in 2017 as a service to broadcast hurling and football matches to people overseas. It’s turned into something completely different now when you have so many matches behind a paywall.

“Instead of promoting and showcasing brilliant Munster hurling games, the GAA are putting up barriers and obstacles to enjoying the game,” Senator Lombard said.