Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 9 Mar 1999

Vol. 501 No. 6

Written Answers. - Special Olympics.

Bernard Allen

Question:

382 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation the proposals, if any, he has to include athletes from Special Olympics Ireland in the carding system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7011/99]

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

Special Olympics places its highest emphasis on promoting participation in sporting activity. One of the founding principles of Special Olympics states:

Special Olympics celebrates and strives to promote the spirit of sportsmanship and a love of participation in sports for its own sake. To that end, Special Olympics aims to provide every athlete with an opportunity to participate in training and competition events which challenge that athlete to his or her fullest potential, regardless of the athlete's level of ability. Special Olympics therefore requires that Special Olympics Games and Tournaments offer sports and events which are appropriate for athletes of all levels of ability, and in the case of team sports, provide every athlete with an opportunity to play in every game.

The international carding scheme was introduced in 1998 to provide a range of supports, both financial and non-financial, to assist Ireland's most talented players and athletes realise their potential to perform successfully at the highest international levels. This scheme replaced the outstanding sportspersons grant scheme operated by the Department of Education and Science between 1986 and 1997.

It is not considered that the aims of the carding scheme – with its focus on the individual in terms of competitive international success – would be in accordance with the principles of the Special Olympics Movement. Special Olympics is a highly valued national governing body and its importance is reflected in the fact that it received funding in the sum of £136,217 in 1998.