Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 27 Apr 1993

Vol. 429 No. 6

Written Answers. - Irish Cycle Federation.

Ivan Yates

Question:

312 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for Education if she has satisfied herself with the dispersal of funds given by her to the Irish Cycle Federation in specific regard to the support given to a wider range of cycling events rather than one or two and with the administration costs of running this federation; if she will have discussions with them in relation to a recent proposed levy on the participants of cycle races in view of the discontent expressed by some elements of the Federation with this decision; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

Under the scheme of grants for recognised sporting organisations, grants are awarded on an annual basis for expenditure in the areas of administration, coaching, attendance at or hosting of international events, the purchase of items of equipment and special projects which either increase participation or improve standards of performance. Under this scheme an annual grant is awarded to the Federation of Irish Cyclists, which is the recognised National Governing Body for the sport of Cycling.

While the expenditure of this grant is a matter for the Governing Body, my Department requires and obtains the audited accounts of the organisation on an annual basis. As the Federation of Irish Cyclists is an independent body with its own constitution which includes procedures for dealing with the matter raised by the Deputy, I do not propose to involve myself in the internal affairs of the organisation.