Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 October 2020
14. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht the extra supports that have been made available for athletes whose participation in the 2020 Summer Olympics and Summer Paralympics was delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26859/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraSport Ireland, which is funded by my Department, is the statutory body with responsibility for the development of sport, including high performance sport and its funding allocations.
Sport Ireland has provided an assurance that athletes on the 2020 International Carding Scheme will continue to receive funding as normal for both this year and into 2021. New entrants will be allowed into the Scheme. This funding certainty has been widely welcomed by our Olympic and Paralympic community.
Other important supports are also being provided, notably in relation to access to the world class facilities available at the Sport Ireland National Sports Campus in Blanchardstown. Due to the work and support of Sport Ireland and the NGBs our high performance athletes have already been back training since the 8th of June. High performance sport is proceeding on a gradual and modified basis in accordance with detailed protocols.
International travel, which is an essential part of high performance programmes, is also being facilitated and supported. Athletes may be required to travel overseas to compete in Olympic/Paralympic qualification events and major championships. The Return to Sport Expert Group, chaired by my Department, has developed detailed guidance to assist high performance sport in its approach to international travel. This important support will assist athletes that need to travel, especially those who are still looking to qualify for the Olympics and Paralympics.
Sport has been a leader throughout this pandemic. Our Olympic and Paralympic athletes have acted as great role models, showing people how to adapt, keep physically active and demonstrating compliance with the guidelines in media appearances.
I would like to take this opportunity to offer my best wishes to our Olympic and Paralympic hopefuls.
