GAA: Cynical reaction to Sky Sports deal

The GAA has insisted its TV deal with Sky Sports was struck to help the Irish diaspora, claiming the move has nothing to do with the association’s finances.

Speaking at the latest Dáil communications committee meeting, the organisation’s two most senior officials hit out at suggestions that the three-year contract is about money, arguing it has been done solely with fans’ best interests in mind.

Facing down the cross- party body during a debate on the issue, GAA president Liam O’Neill and director general Paraic Duffy said the GAA is obliged to look after emigrants as well as people living in Ireland.