Vol. 529 No. 2
165 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation the action he has taken to facilitate Irish athletes who compete in international competitions; if adequate coaching, training and other facilities in accordance with modern international standards are available; if they will be made available here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2732/01]
The Irish Sports Council, which was established on a statutory basis from 1 July 1999 provides funding for a range of programmes to develop and enhance governing bodies of sport, their coaching, training and international competition activities. The National Coaching and Training Centre provides a range of high quality programmes in coaching and in scientific, physiological services for governing bodies, individual élite athletes, and teams and squads. The International Carding Scheme operated by the Irish Sports Council provides, in addition to direct financial assistance, a holistic range of supports and services to our top level, international athletes.
