Vol. 568 No. 3
12 Ms O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position regarding the review of the local sports partnerships; when the review is expected to be completed; if it is intended to extend the number of such partnerships; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16145/03]
The Programme for Prosperity and Fairness committed the Government to the introduction of local sport partnerships to help promote and develop sport at local level. In its first strategy document A New Era for Irish Sport (2000-2002) the Irish Sports Council included the establishment of local sports partnerships as one of its main priorities. Following the receipt of proposals from local bodies, the council approved and funded the establishment of eight partnerships in May 2001 and a further four were established in early 2002. These are located in Clare, Donegal, Fingal, Kildare, Laois, Roscommon, Sligo, Tipperary north, Cork, Limerick, Meath and Waterford.
At the Department's request the Irish Sports Council commissioned consultants to carry out a review of four of the original eight partnerships. This review has recently been completed and forwarded to my Department where it is currently under consideration. Decisions on the further development of the local sports partnership concept will be taken on completion of my consideration of the issues raised in the review and in light of available budgetary resources.
Can the Minister indicate when the application of Kerry local sports partnership will be approved?
Now we are getting down to the bread and butter of the situation. I do not know at this point.
The Minister will get the credit. He will be doing his best.
Written Answers follow Adjournment Debate.
