A Fianna Fáil Senator has suggested that the only solution to Ireland’s international soccer woes is to develop an all-island soccer team. One hundred years after Ireland’s football associations separated, border county Senator Robbie Gallagher said it is time to have a debate about the creation of a single soccer team. The Monaghan Senator said Ireland is too small to have two international soccer teams, citing the success of all-Ireland teams, especially rugby. Almost all international team and field sports are all-island activities and as well as rugby they include hockey, basketball and cricket. He said that “Northern Ireland and indeed the Republic have had some good days in the past”.

Source: The Irish Times March 29, 2021 11:27 UTC