Row Erupts Over Ireland vs Israel Game as TDs Push for Boycott - 03/06/2026

The Government has been accused of “hiding behind” the FAI over its position on the Republic of Ireland’s upcoming World Cup qualifier against Israel in October.Minister of State for Sport Charlie McConalogue said the decision to proceed with the fixture rests with the FAI, adding that the Government respects that position. He also confirmed he will not attend the match, but warned the association could face sanctions from UEFA if it attempted a boycott.He said the coalition will continue to pursue “leadership in the political arena internationally” in relation to Israel, with the aim of building support for sanctions and other measures.However, opposition parties have strongly criticised the Government’s stance, with the Social Democrats tabling Dáil a motion calling for the match to be boycotted. Social Democrats TD Sinéad Gibney described the minister’s comments as a “cop-out” and accused the Government of ignoring previous precedent.Deputy Gibney joined us on The Agenda this morning to talk to us some more about this. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.