I propose to take Questions Nos. 15, 16, 27, 44 and 59 together.
Deputies will be aware of my deep concern with regard to the use of performance enhancing drugs within sport and my commitment to oversee the introduction of a national sports anti-doping programme.
All recognised national governing bodies of sport have been circularised with the details and will be involved over the coming months in consultation with the Sports Council, which will oversee delivery of the programme. Its provisions go beyond testing to incorporate assistance in the education of our young athletes about the dangers inherent in drug taking. While the programme will be voluntary in nature, public funding will be withheld from any national governing body of sport or individual athlete which opts out of the programme or, if participating, is found to be in breach of any element of the rules governing its operation.
I am aware that the IRFU has been very much to the fore in support of my proposals for such a programme. However, I have not been in direct contact specifically in regard to recent allegations against some rugby players because these cases are being investigated under the relevant national and international governing bodies' rules and regulations and would not, therefore, be a matter for discussion or communication between the union and myself.
With regard to remarks earlier this year, allegedly attributed to the President of the International Olympic Council, I believe that sporting performance, ideally, should be based exclusively on natural ability and sound training techniques application and that the rules of sporting bodies should reflect this approach.
Reports on the use of creatine and possible side effects have been varied. The substance is not, as far as I am aware, precluded by the International Olympic Committee or international federations of sport. I reiterate my belief that sporting performance should ideally be based on natural ability, sound training techniques and application.