Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 April 2018
52. Deputy Tom Neville asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his vision for the role of sport in promoting positive mental health and well-being; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17737/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraIt is widely accepted that sport and physical activity makes an important contribution to a person's mental health and well-being. Positive mental health is an important topic and its profile has been rightly raised in recent years, as the identification and prevention of mental illness has become a priority for the Government and many advocacy organisations. Young people, in particular, need to nourish their mental health and wellbeing as life becomes more fast-paced and demanding, especially during times of increased challenge at exam time and during the transition into the workplace.
I am keen therefore to ensure that there is a population-wide increase in participation levels in sport and physical activity this matter is receiving particular emphasis in a new national sports policy that is nearing completion and which I expect to launch in the near future. The benefits to be gained from increasing the level of sport and physical activity across the population are many. For example, tension and stress release, improved physical and mental energy, improved sleep patterns, increased concentration levels at school or at work, and the positive impacts on social relationships.
It is also appropriate to recall that Connecting for Life, Ireland's National Strategy to Reduce Suicide 2015-2020, recognises the role of sport and physical activity as a protective factor for mental health. My Department is represented on the cross-government Steering Group for the implementation of this important Strategy.
