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Olympic Games

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 December 2018

Wednesday, 12 December 2018

Ceisteanna (219)

Kevin O'Keeffe

Ceist:

219. Deputy Kevin O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on the recent decision by an organisation (details supplied) to suspend the boxing competition at the 2020 Olympics; and if he has made representations on the matter. [52358/18]

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Freagraí scríofa

I am aware of the recent announcement by the IOC - the International Olympic Committee - to suspend planning for the Olympic boxing tournament at Tokyo 2020. This announcement was accompanied by a statement of the IOC’s intention to initiate a full inquiry into the internal governance arrangements of the International Boxing Association (AIBA). At the present time, it is my understanding that the IOC has not yet made a final decision in relation to the inclusion of boxing at the 2020 Olympics.

It is important to clarify that International Sport Organisations, such as the IOC, are independent, autonomous bodies that are responsible for deciding their own operational procedures and competition rules.  No Government has a role or function in such decision making.

I am deeply concerned by the potentially adverse consequences of this emerging situation for our athletes within Ireland’s high performance boxing programme and in their preparations for Tokyo 2020.  It is crucial that these athletes do not suffer  and that their Olympic ambitions are protected. I welcome the positive commitment of both Sport Ireland and the Irish Athletic Boxing Association (IABA), with whom I have been in contact, to address this situation. Sport Ireland and the IABA are continuing to work collaboratively in preparing our Irish boxers for Tokyo 2020 and I will continue to monitor this situation closely.

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