142. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport for an update on his efforts to support the League of Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16822/26]

Sentiment score: 0.14

The League of Ireland is experiencing sustained growth, with Premier Division attendances up 8% in 2025 and over 1.1 million attending matches involving League of Ireland clubs across the country. At a time when domestic football is clearly on the up, will the Minister of State outline what measures he and his Department are taking to support the rise of the League of Ireland?

Sentiment score: 0.52

I agree with the Minister of State. In a few weeks, thousands of Irish supporters will cheer on the boys in green as they face the Czechs in Prague on 26 March, aiming to move closer to World Cup qualification for the first time since 2002. Moments like this remind us of our responsibility to strengthen the domestic game in order to support future national success. As the Minister of State said, Brexit has reshaped the pathway for young Irish players. More promising footballers are staying in Ireland for longer and are gaining senior experience in the League of Ireland instead of moving abroad at the age of 16. This presents a significant opportunity for us. Clubs are responding by raising coaching standards, investing in academies, upgrading facilities and developing players in competitive first-team environments. They are operating more sustainably, developing talent, securing transfer fees and reinvesting in infrastructure and youth development. If we want a stronger national team, we must strengthen the domestic system that produces it. The League of Ireland is no longer peripheral; it is absolutely central to Ireland's football future. I am in the green tonight.

Sentiment score: 0.40

I am also biased about Dublin West football clubs. We have the best in the country. I welcome the €3 million allocated in budget 2026 for League of Ireland academies. This important investment gives clubs the resources to build modern and professional academy systems and create clear pathways for the next generation of Irish players, both boys and girls. It represents a significant opportunity. More young players can now remain in the domestic system, developing and gaining experience at home. As the League of Ireland grows in profile, the conditions are in place to nurture talent in a way that we have not seen for decades. If we build on this momentum over the lifetime of the Government, we can match the pride and dedication of our supporters, including those who travel nationwide for their clubs and follow the national teams abroad, with sustained investment, planning and proper structures. By doing so, we can ensure Irish football reflects the ambition, passion and commitment that supporters already bring to the game.

Sentiment score: 0.52