I propose Deputy Glennon.
Election of Vice-Chairman.
I second that.
Are there any other nominations? As there are no other nominations I declare Deputy Glennon elected. I wish him well and look forward to working with him in the next five years. While I do not wish to categorise him, his knowledge of sport, in particular, will be beneficial. I know his interest in this committee is strong. He is an apt choice.
I thank the Chairman for her comments. I also thank my proposer and seconder. I look forward to working with all the committee members. I have enjoyed the first few months of committee membership. I look forward to a busy and enjoyable five year period.
A draft work programme for 2003 has been circulated to members. I propose that it be adopted at our meeting of 15 January, subject to any change suggested in the interim. Is that agreed? Agreed.
At our last meeting it was proposed to invite Fossett's circus to the committee and that has been arranged for 15 January. On that day we also intend to deal with the issue of maritime safety. I also propose to appoint Deputies O'Malley and English to do a rapporteur study on youth, sports, arts and the role of arts and sport in alcohol and alcohol avoidance. I make this proposal in their absence but they have expressed an interest in pursuing this matter. Is that agreed? Agreed.
A letter has been circulated from the Israeli information and culture committee. A number of sports groups, particularly soccer teams refused to play in the UEFA and other competitions in Israel due to the deteriorating security situation. The Israelis wish people to ignore the security question and request that Irish teams travel to Israel. It is not within the competence of this committee to direct teams at any level to travel. The suggested response would be to encourage Irish participation in all sporting events provided that the appropriate national and international bodies were happy with all the arrangements including security. The joint committee also recognises the right of individual players to withdraw from any event because of personal reasons. Is that agreed? Agreed.
The maritime safety consultation paper has also been circulated. Perhaps the best way to deal with this matter is to call on the Department to brief us. We can bring officials in on 15 January and make a response following on from that. Is that agreed? There is no other business.
The joint committee adjourned at 4.21p.m. sine die.