Currently, funding to Bord Lúthchleas Ógánach na hÉireann is channelled through Bord Lúthchleas na hÉireann, BLE, while funding to the Irish Schools Athletic Association, ISAA, has been allocated separately to that organisation. I have stated that my policy in relation to the funding for athletics is to reach a situation quickly where development funds for the sport can be channelled through one administrative structure.
In December 1998, as an initial step in this process, I asked BLE, the ISAA and the other recognised governing body for athletics, the National Cultural and Athletic Association of Ireland, NACAI, to participate in a joint planning group to be chaired by the Director of the National Coaching and Training Centre to facilitate the preparation of an integrated application for funding towards the cost of organisational development, international competition and training and hosting of events in 1999.