Government firm on TV plan despite Sky threat of legal action

THE Government has vowed to press ahead with its plans to ensure that all of Ireland’s competitive soccer internationals will remain available to free-to-air stations, despite the possibility of a legal challenge from Sky TV.

However, Communications Minister Dermot Ahern conceded yesterday that he did not have power to force the Rupert Murdoch-owned station to make next Wednesday's crucial European Championship qualifier against Switzerland available live to terrestrial TV stations.

It was confirmed yesterday that the crucial tie which could impact on Mick McCarthy's reign as Irish manager will be available only to subscribers to Sky Sports.