Vol. 557 No. 5
68 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his proposals to provide financial assistance for Morton Stadium, Santry, to ensure that it will be in a position to facilitate some elements of the Special Olympics in 2003; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22485/02]
I understand the organising committee for the Special Olympics is satisfied that Morton Stadium, Santry is suitable as it stands for the purpose of hosting some events in the Special Olympics World Summer Games, such as the track and field competition of the games. Fingal County Council, which is responsible for the ongoing management of the stadium, has indicated that a number of small remedial and cosmetic type works would be desirable to ensure that the facility looks its best for the games. My Department is considering how these remedial works can be supported and will discuss the matter with Fingal County Council.
The range of facilities currently in place at Morton Stadium include a state of the art athletics track and field area, indoor training and coaching facilities and spectator accommodation, including a covered stand with seating. These excellent facilities were provided with the assistance of €2 million in sports capital grants over a number of years. The Government, through my Department, has committed €10.2 million towards the overall cost of hosting the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Ireland in June 2003.
