Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 November 2017
434. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when Sports Ireland will reinstate its funding to the Olympic Council of Ireland in view of the fact that it has exited the contract with a company (details supplied) and the new committee and new governance structure at the organisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47871/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs I have previously indicated to the House, considerable progress has been made in improving corporate governance within the Olympic Council of Ireland (OCI) since the election of the new OCI Executive Board in February of this year. There has been a demonstrable commitment to change and reform. I also consider that the recent contract termination to which the Deputy refers represents a positive and welcome development.
I recognise the importance of ensuring that the preparation of athletes for Olympic Games should not be adversely affected by the withholding of state funding to the OCI. In this context, it is noteworthy that funding outstanding to the OCI in respect of 2016 has already been paid.
In relation to funding for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic cycle, from 2017 onwards, I am hopeful of a resolution being achieved in the near future. Subject to a number of matters in the Moran Inquiry Report being addressed satisfactorily, I believe that we are now close to a position where we can restore normal funding arrangements with the OCI. There is an ongoing Sport Ireland engagement with the OCI in relation to this matter, which I requested in late September and which my Department is monitoring.
