Jack Wall TD

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FALLOFF IN SPORTS PARTICIPATION A REAL CONCERN

Issued : Friday 12 February, 2010

The findings of the Irish Sports Monitor report indicating that participation in sporting activities dropped last year, is a serious concern.

Sport has a vital role to play in all parts of the country, not just in terms of the health of individuals, but also with regard to building and maintaining communities. The Govt has a responsibility to promote involvement in sport, but just how this will happen in the context of swingeing cuts as announced in last week’s budget, is not at all clear.

The Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme has been closed to new participants since 2000 and the Sports Capital Programme has been closed indefinitely. Grants for sporting bodies  through the Irish Sports Council are down 14 per cent on the 2008 figure.

In the context of an overall cut in govt spending of about three per cent, it would seem that sport has been singled out for special treatment.

There are many initiatives that the govt could take, without breaking the bank. For instance, we believe that PE could be made an exam subject for the Junior and Leaving Certificates, giving it points status for third level entry. New areas of sports funding should be identified, such as revenue from gambling.

The role of the Sports Council should be reformed. The Sports Council should take on board responsibility for developing and promoting recreation activities and should work more closely with local authorities. At the same time the development of policy and decision making should be devolved back towards the Department. 

Labour also believes that as part of a job creation scheme, we should be investing in a schools building programme that could include the construction of sports halls and other facilities for communities around the country.

The positive role that sport plays in society at a personal and community level is not in doubt. That sports participation is falling at a time of recession is a very serious issue. Previous ESRI studies have shown that those on lower incomes are less likely to be involved in sport. It is time for the Government to act to keep Ireland active.