asked the Minister for Justice what facilities are placed at the disposal of the Gardaí to train for competitive boxing; and whether he proposes to extend these facilities in the future in order to promote greater interest in the sport.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Garda Boxing Facilities.
At present only limited gymnasium facilities are available in the depot but I hope that I shall be in a position to improve the gymnasium equipment at an early date. My object in seeking to improve the facilities is primarily to ensure that all Garda recruits are given instruction in defensive boxing but, of course, no impediment will be put in the way of any individual Garda who desires to use the gymnasium to train for competitive boxing.
Is the Minister aware that, on account of the increasing interest in international sports, successful competitors tend to gain great prestige and that, generally speaking, Gardaí are at a disadvantage in these sports because they lack up-to-date training facilities? Will he see to it that hours of duty and so on can be so arranged as to give them proper training facilities such as are available in other countries?
I cannot add anything to the answer I have given. It is one of the results of the economic and financial squeeze. Until the present situation passes, I cannot promise any more.
I was about to ask the Minister—I think he has replied to it now—if he intends to spend more or less money?
Is the Minister aware that the Garda Boxing Association has not produced an amateur boxer of championship or international standard for very many years? The civilian clubs have been the mainstay of our Olympic teams.
That is an argument, not a supplementary question.
I would sugest to the Minister that he recommend the Gardaí to join civilian clubs.