Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 January 2026
593. Deputy Shane Moynihan asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport if he will enquire with Sport Ireland the reasons, notwithstanding recent funding announcements, some national governing bodies continue not to provide financial assistance to juveniles selected to compete abroad and represent their country (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6258/26]
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 allocation of funding across its various programmes. Sport Ireland does not provide direct funding for individual athletes but channels the funding through its network of Local Sports Partnerships, recognised National Governing Bodies for sport (NGBs), and other relevant sporting organisations.
While Sport Ireland’s remit includes the allocation of funding to NGBs for the design and implementation of a range of targeted programmes and initiatives to promote increased sports participation, neither this Department, nor Sport Ireland, has responsibility for how NGBs manage and promote their respective sports. All NGBs are independent, autonomous bodies and are responsible for their own governance and operational procedures, including athlete development and support.
For further details of the funding streams in place I have referred the Deputy's question to Sport Ireland for direct reply in relation to this matter. I would ask the Deputy to inform my office if a reply is not received within 10 days.
