I would like to start by indulging in some parochialism by congratulating St. Patrick's Athletic on their win at the weekend in the FAI League Cup.

I ask the Deputy to focus on promised legislation.

I am getting there. What we saw at the weekend was a packed Aviva Stadium, which shows the potential of the League of Ireland. What we have, in reality, is a League of Ireland that is struggling day to day. What we need is meaningful support for the league. We need better facilities and investment in academies. Post Brexit, young people who are looking to improve themselves and build a career in football can no longer access academies in the UK. We need to reform the unrealistic target of 30% matched funding for the sports capital grants, which many of these clubs and facilities cannot meet. What will the Government do to provide meaningful supports to the League of Ireland?

In the first instance, I support the strengthening of the League of Ireland. I believe, under the current leadership within the FAI, that there is a genuine agenda, working with the Minister of State at the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Deputy Chambers, to develop long-term plans for the strengthening of League of Ireland football. It should be acknowledged that there has been a considerable investment over the years in League of Ireland facilities, including Tallaght Stadium and Turner's Cross Stadium in Cork city, where I have witnessed a fantastic transformation over the years. However, sustainability is needed.

I want to congratulate St. Patrick's Athletic on a very good win. Tradition comes through. I take the Deputy's point and I will follow through on it.