Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 25 September 2024
44. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if Sports Ireland could be requested to provide additional summer camps for children with physical and intellectual disabilities; and if weekly classes could be considered (details supplied). [37971/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraSport 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, including the development of guidance and training programmes for sporting bodies. This remit also includes the measurement of sports participation and the allocation of funding to sporting organisations for the implementation of a range of programmes and measures to address inequalities in sports participation.
Within this remit, Sport Ireland actively works to serve the needs of people with disabilities across sport as a priority. Guided by its "Policy on Participation in Sport by People with Disabilities", it develops initiatives and administers funding and supports to sports organisations nationwide with the aim of enabling people with disabilities of all ages to participate in sport and physical activity on an equal basis. Work is also progressing in appointing a dedicated Disability in Sport Lead within Sport Ireland.
As the issue raised is a matter for Sport Ireland, I have referred the Deputy's question to the agency for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to inform my office if a reply is not received within 10 working days.
