Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 9 Feb 1999

Vol. 500 No. 1

Written Answers - Olympic Movement.

Michael Bell

Question:

71 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation if he will give details of any comments he has made regarding recent scandals in the International Olympic Committee; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3454/99]

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

78 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation his views on the reform of the Olympic movement; and his further views on whether change is necessary. [3418/99]

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation (Dr. McDaid)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 71 and 78 together.

The Olympic Charter governs the organisation and operation of the olympic movement and stipulates the conditions for the celebration of the Olympic Games. Under the charter, the International Olympic Committee is the supreme authority of the olympic movement. Any proposals for the reform of the olympic movement in the light of recent events would be a matter for the members of the International Olympic Committee, which is a private and autonomous body, and of which the Irish Olympic Council is a constituent part. Therefore I have not considered it appropriate to make public comment on the matter.

In relation to the recent events, I would be concerned that some members of the International Olympic Committee may have acted in a manner not in keeping with one of the fundamental principles of the olympic movement which states that sport should be practised without discrimination of any kind and in a spirit of friendship, solidarity and fair play. I understand from press reports that preliminary investigations carried out by the International Olympic Committee into recent allegations have resulted in the resignations of some IOC members. The reports have also con firmed that investigations are continuing into the actions of other members suspected of improprieties.