Vol. 523 No. 4
35 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation if he will make a statement on the Irish Sports Council's strategy 2000-2002 programme; if he supports the objectives set out in the strategy; and the plans he has to provide additional finance or resources to allow the council to meet the objectives set out. [21115/00]
42 Mr. McDowell asked the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation the progress made to date in regard to the establishment of the sport and recreation partnerships promised in the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21116/00]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 35 and 42 together.
The Irish Sports Council statement of strategy, 2000-02 entitled A New Era for Sport was formally launched last month. The strategy statement sets out clearly the council's vision for sport and how it proposes to deliver on that vision. In establishing the council, I envisaged an organisation that would have a positive impact right across the sporting spectrum – from our outstanding sportspersons, who must be given every opportunity to develop and reach their potential, to the person who wants to take part in sport for recreation and enjoyment purposes.
As required under the Irish Sports Council Act, 1999, the statement of strategy was submitted to me for my approval, and provision of resources from the Exchequer for implementation will be considered in the context of the annual Estimates for the public services, for each of the years covered by the council's statement.
The strategy incorporates a pathway for the creation of local sports partnerships as a means of creating sustainable sports development infrastructure at local level, along the lines envisaged by Government and the social partners in the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness. I understand from the council that consultation with the relevant parties, which is the first step in establishing partnerships, has recently commenced.
Question No. 36 taken with Question No. 17.
Question No. 37 taken with Question No. 13.
Question No. 38 taken with Question No. 17.
Question No. 39 taken with Question No. 15.
Question No. 40 taken with Question No. 15.
