Seán Power
Question:135 Mr. Power asked the Minister for Education the plans, if any, the Government has to honour the achievements of our sporting stars at international level. [13592/95]
Written Answers. - Sporting Achievements.
The Minister of State at my Department has initiated the preparation of a national strategy for the development of Irish sport. The question of enhancing Government support and the honouring of Ireland's top, elite, international competitors will be considered in the context of this strategy document.
I would also like to point out that since 1986 my Department has administered a special scheme of grants to assist outstanding sportspeople in the development of their sporting careers. In 1994, a new scheme, Olympic Aid Atlanta was introduced which provides substantial funding for our prospective medal winners at the Olympic Games in Atlanta in 1996. Our international stars have, and are continuing to, benefit under these schemes.
The Government also honours our sports stars by hosting official receptions to celebrate publicly their achievements and mark the distinction which their successes bring to our country.