Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Éamon Ó Cuív has welcomed a move by the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) to incorporate the word 'Éire' on their international match day jerseys.
In a statement issued today by Minister Ó Cuív, he said he was 'delighted' that the FAI had decided to use the Irish name for Ireland.
The new shirts will be seen for the first time worn by players in first world cup qualifier matches in September.
"This is a welcome recognition of our national language by the FAI and I would particularly like to thank the Chief Executive, John Delaney, for raising this matter with his Board after my suggesting it to him," said Minister Ó Cuív.
"Following the acceptance of the Irish language as an official working language of the European Union, this move is yet a further enhancement of the language on the international stage."
"I wish the Irish team and their new manager every success in the coming campaign and I hope that the new jerseys will bring them luck," concluded the Minister.
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