The match fixing allegations that came to head in the UK over the last few days implicated Ireland after the alleged match fixer told an undercover investigator 'I do Australia, Scotland. Ireland. Europe. World Cup. World Cup qualifier.'
However as reported by RTÉ, the FAI has reiterated that there is no evidence of Irish football in the current investigation by the National Crime Agency in the UK.
They said, 'We have regular contact with this issue with Uefa, Europol and Interpol and none of them have indicated any Irish connection at this stage.'
The Irish Independent spoke to Minister for Sport, Michael Ring TD, who said:
'Match-fixing in any sport is a hugely serious issue and it must be addressed immediately if discovered in an Irish context. The Department of Sport has spoken to the FAI which confirmed that no issues have been raised about such activity in Ireland by Europol, Interpol or UEFA.
'However, should any evidence emerge to the contrary, the Government will provide immediate assistance. We will not tolerate this in Irish sport.'
Meanwhile The Telegraph reports that at least four of the six people arrested in the UK in relation to the match fixing allgeations were released on bail yesterday.
Hat-tip: Irish Independent
