asked the Minister for Education if he intends to increase the present amount provided for the purpose of promoting sport in Ireland.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Promotion of Sport.
45.
The estimates for 1970-71 include a further figure of £100,000 for this purpose. The provision for 1971-72 will be considered with the general estimates for the Department for that year.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary satisfied, having taken over the new portfolio, that there is in fact a decrease of over 7 per cent in the amount allocated for sport by his Department as compared with last year's amount?
That is not so. Did the Deputy say a decrease of 7 per cent?
Last year it was £107,000 for the administration of sport and this year it is £100,000. Is the Parliamentary Secretary satisfied with this?
In common with all concerned with recreational facilities I would not be satisfied if I had twice as much. The extra £7,000 last year was for a commitment which already existed at the time of the £100,000 grant. I can assure the Deputy and all concerned with recreational facilities that I will be anxious to get as much money as possible.