Work has commenced on the development of the first National Swimming Strategy based on a vision to ‘provide everyone in Ireland with an opportunity to swim’.
The Working Group tasked with the detailed work of preparing the strategy is chaired by my Department and comprises representatives from relevant National Governing Bodies for sport and stakeholders, specifically Swim Ireland, Sport Ireland, CARA, Ireland Active and Local Authorities (via the County & City Management Association). The Group has met on four occasions to date, most recently on the 15th of November.
An extensive consultation process has been undertaken with both stakeholders and the wider public as part of the Strategy, with a public consultation process having run from 9th September to 7th October. Work is now ongoing on the analysis of the very large number of responses received to ensure that the Strategy encompasses all of the issues raised and views expressed to the greatest extent possible.