Sports Organisations

Wednesday, 15 April 2026

Ceisteanna (260)

Robert O'Donoghue

Ceist:

260. Deputy Robert O'Donoghue asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the research currently being undertaken regarding adult welfare concerns in local community sports and athletics clubs; the policies and procedures in place for handling adult welfare concerns within such clubs; whether there are plans to introduce or strengthen governance standards for committees of local community sports and athletics clubs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27693/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport

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 including athlete welfare.

Sport Ireland works with National Governing Bodies of Sport (NGBs) to ensure that appropriate policies are put in place to take a proactive approach to safeguarding by identifying and mitigating risks to athlete welfare. It also works with NGBs to ensure mechanisms are in place to appropriately react to and handle complaints or issues when they arise.

Ultimately, NGBs are independent autonomous organisations responsible for their own governance including safeguarding procedures and disciplinary and complaints processes.

I have referred the Deputy's questions to Sport Ireland for direct reply in relation to the matter raised by the Deputy and I would ask the Deputy to inform my office if a reply is not received within 10 days.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.