asked the Minister for Education the action she proposes to take to encourage more active and effective development of sport and athletics in this country in view of the overall poor performance of the Irish representatives in Los Angeles with the exception of John Treacy.
Written Answers. - Development of Athletics.
710.
I do not agree with the Deputy's statement that the Irish team's performance in Los Angeles was a poor one. Apart from John Treacy's wonderful achievement, there were a number of noteworthy performances by members of the Irish team at the XXIIIrd Olympiad.
However, I do recognise that our élite athletes and potential Olympians are at a disadvantage in comparison with their counterparts in other countries in terms of the back-up services available to them in the course of their preparation and training. In this regard, I have asked COSPOIR, The National Sports Council and the Olympic Council of Ireland to submit to me joint proposals for the development of Olympic sports for the 1988 Olympics as well as a long term strategy for aiding junior athletes who show promise.
These discussions are now at an advanced stage and on receipt of the recommendations it is my intention to endeavour to provide adequate funding to implement the proposals.