Written question WQ85063
- Asked by
- Jack SargeantLabour
- To be answered by
- Minister for Economy
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 8 days
Question
Will the Minister make a statement on how the Welsh Government can support broadcasters to ensure Cymru international football matches continue to be available in both English and Welsh?
Answer
Answered by Deputy Minister for Arts and Sport, and Chief Whip
The Welsh Government takes a keen interest in broadcasting issues which affect Wales. We are aware of the importance of the availability of Welsh international football match broadcasts in both Welsh and English to fans, to broadcasters and to the delivery of our ambitions for the Welsh language.
I hold regular meetings with the public service broadcasters in Wales to discuss broadcast matters, including the availability of sporting coverage. Our Memorandums of Understanding with S4C and the BBC also provide a framework for my officials to discuss key issues.
It is important to note that this Viaplay deal was put in place by UEFA and impacts Scotland and Northern Ireland in the same way. As such, there is little that can be done by either the FAW or the Welsh Government to influence any agreement. However, the Welsh Government is committed to working with S4C, the current broadcaster of Welsh matches, and the FAW to explore every opportunity to ensure that they remain a Welsh language broadcaster of Welsh games.