A Clare Oireachtas Communications Committee Member says the GAA need to be careful not to ‘throw the baby out with the bath water’ regarding the broadcasting of the hurling and football championships.
This follows the GAA announcing they are seeking ‘expressions of interest’ in media rights for broadcasting All Ireland Championship games, amidst much backlash against GAAGO.
The GAA have this week been advised by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission to go to tender on their broadcast rights packages.
GAAGO signed a five year contract for the broadcasting rights up until 2027, with this year being the second season of that agreement.
TG4, Virgin Media and other streaming sites will now be able to bid for the rights to broadcast live GAA, while RTE will retain their 31 live games free to air.
Irish Independent Journalist and former Offaly hurler, Michael Verney, believes this decision is a power play by the GAA.
In its first two years, GAAGO has received much criticism over its price point and decisions as to which games are put behind the paywall, with many people claiming they are being priced out of too many important games.
The service has received staunch backing from GAA president Jarlaith Burns, who previously claimed GAAGO provides the association much needed funding while also showcasing games that would otherwise not be broadcast.
However, Tulla based Fianna Fail senator and Oireachtas Communications Committee Member, Timmy Dooley, says the GAA must be careful not to ostracise an older generation when funding can be gathered elsewhere.
You can listen to the full interview here:
