Vol. 547 No. 1
78 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation his views on the small number of Irish professional golfers who are qualified to compete on the European tour; and his strategy to assist talented young golfers to advance their skills. [2659/02]
The Team Ireland Golf Trust was established in September 1999 as the main support mechanism for assisting young golfers, both male and female, in the early stages of their professional careers. The trust provides financial and non-financial support for selected young golfers to help them qualify for tour cards and achieve success at international level. It has an initial fund of 241,250 per annum for three years provided by private organisations and individuals, the Irish Sports Council and Bord Fáilte. Non-financial support is provided in the form of access for a range of sports science and medical services, which are co-ordinated through the national coaching and training centre in Limerick.
I understand from the Sports Council that the selection criteria of the golfers to be assisted by the trust are: performance record; coaching, training and competitive programme; progression in the sport; and financial requirements.
The operation of the trust is overseen by a committee and includes representatives from the Golfing Union of Ireland, the Irish Ladies Golfing Union, the Professional Golfers Association, the Irish Sports Council, Bord Fáilte and the private sector. The Irish Sports Council is responsible for the trust's administration and financial management.
