The Six Nations is open to being bought by a subscription sports network, as communications Denis Naughten has decided not to add live coverage of the rugby competition to the list of sporting events protected for free-to-air TV.
A number of sporting events every year must be broadcast live on terrestrial television: these include the All-Ireland finals, Ireland;s games at football and rugby world cups and the Olympic games.
Live coverage of the Six Nations has not been part of that list, although deferred coverage of the tournament is on the list.
Naughten's predecessor Alex White had considered adding the Six Nations to the list, although now Denis Naughten has decided against it. In 2015, the tournament's CEO admitted that they would consider all options, regarding broadcasters.
The competition, however, is assured of remaining on free-to-air TV in Ireland for the next five years, as the Six Nations have been bought by TV3 for 2018 to 2021.
While the Six Nations has not been included on the list, Minister Naughten has added the ladies' camogie and football finals to the list.
[the Sunday Times]
