asked the Minister for Education if, in view of the different attitudes taken by different sports authorities in this country, he will request the Council of Europe to define whether the sporting competitors from Northern Ireland should be classified as Irish or English contenders.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Sporting Unity.
13.
This is not a matter in which I would consider that any useful purpose would be served by making such a request.
This matter is causing some difficulty for the Olympic Committee. I understand facilities are available in the Council of Europe whereby this decision might be clarified. As the Minister is aware, people engaged in similar sports are making claims. Perhaps in some way we could bring about the unification of all our sporting associations.
While I sympathise with the Deputy's objective of bringing about harmony and unity, I am advised that no useful purpose would be served by dealing with that request in the manner suggested.