Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 October 2021
54. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media her plans to encourage a sports for all approach across sport; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47929/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraSport for all is an ethos that emphasises inclusion within sport and is accordingly entirely consistent with the Government's policies in this area. Our policy approach is aimed at ensuring that all persons have the opportunity to partake equally in sport and physical activity, regardless of age, social-economic status, disability, or membership of, for example, the LGBTI+ community, the Traveller community or other ethnic minorities. Increasing participation amongst these groups is a core objective of the National Sports Policy 2018-2027.
I will soon be launching a Sports Action Plan covering the period to end 2023, which will include a series of actions and initiatives aimed at increasing participation levels across the board. The plan's emphasis will be geared towards increasing inclusion, diversity and equality in sport.
My Department is also funding a wide range of projects from the Dormant Accounts funds that are specifically aimed at increasing participation levels amongst disadvantaged communities and people with a disability. The total amount of funding being allocated for such projects this year is €10M, twice the amount that prevailed a number of years ago.
Finally, I would also like to emphasise the important contribution that Sport Ireland makes in this area. Sport Ireland, which is funded by my Department, is the statutory body with responsibility for the development of sport, increasing participation at all levels and raising standards. The Deputy will be interested to note that Sport Ireland is in the process of developing a specific Diversity and Inclusion policy which is expected to be launched by the end of this year.
