Jun 8, 2021
Sport Ireland has today announced an investment package of €5.9million in Dormant Accounts Funding for a wide range of sport and physical activity measures countrywide at an event in Corduff Community Resource Centre.
The investment aims to engage communities across the country, focusing on people with disabilities, people who are educationally disadvantaged and from disadvantaged communities.
Speaking about the new round of Dormant Account Funding, Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin TD, said: “Addressing inequalities in sports participation is a key action within the National Sports Policy 2018-2027 and a key priority for Government. Sport Ireland’s announcement of €5.9 million in funding through the Dormant Accounts Fund will further support the development and implementation of programmes and interventions to ensure access to sport and physical activities for all groups in society. This significant investment targeting people who are economically, socially or educationally disadvantaged or who have a disability is very welcome. In particular, it is good to see a focus on programme innovation, the enhancement of the urban outdoor environment and empowering community leaders to deliver projects & programmes at a community level. Through this funding sport and physical activity will become increasingly accessible to all.”
Government Chief Whip and Minister of State for the Gaeltacht and Sport Jack Chambers TD added: “I am delighted to be here today to announce this significant investment of Dormant Accounts Funding to develop and promote participation initiatives. Facilities across Ireland, just like Corduff Community Resource Centre, will benefit from this funding. Over the past year or more of restrictions we have seen the huge importance that Irish people place on sport and physical activity and the many benefits it can have on our mental and physical wellbeing. While restrictions have been difficult for all groups in society it has been particularly detrimental for people with a disability and for older adults. I am encouraged to see a strong level of investment in projects addressing this as returning to sport and physical activity safely will have far reaching benefits for both cohorts. I look forward to seeing the impact of this funding throughout the year and encourage people to engage with their Local Sports Partnership and National Governing Body of Sport and reap the many benefits of being active”.
Joe O’Brien, T.D., Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development, who has delegated responsibility for the Dormant Account Fund, welcomed the announcement of the disbursement of dormant funds for these sports measures. Minister O’Brien said: “Dormant Accounts funding makes a real difference to individuals and communities right across the country. These sporting measures will help increase participation in sport and physical activity in local communities”.
Chairman of Sport Ireland, Kieran Mulvey, commented: “Sport Ireland is delighted with the significant investment in Urban Outdoor Adventure Hubs and the Active Cities. Over the past year we have all turned to the outdoors as a place to exercise and socialise. It is important that we continue to develop opportunities to use the outdoors for sport and physical activity and make daily outdoor activity a part of our routines, regardless of whether we live in the countryside or in a city”.
Chief Executive of Sport Ireland, John Treacy, commented: “The Dormant Accounts Funding will enable Sport Ireland, supported by National Governing Bodies of Sport and Local Sports Partnerships to provide everyone the opportunity to partake in sport and physical activity, no matter what their circumstances. The significant investment in Volunteer Training and Supports as well as Youth Leadership will be critical in supporting local volunteers and leaders as the country gradually opens up and we return to sport”.
As with previous funding announced, the investment is closely aligned with the National Sports Policy 2018-2027 and the National Physical Activity Plan. A particular emphasis is placed on implementing programmes to promote physical activity, making sport and physical activity accessible to people with a disability and the development of programmes to address transitions and drop out from physical activity.
Sport Ireland Director of Participation and Ethics, Dr Una May, said: “In 2021, Dormant Account Funding will be allocated to establish and develop 10 new Community Sports and Physical Activity Hubs as well as the 36 existing hubs. It is great to see continued investment in the hubs as they form a home for local clubs and sports organisations. They provide support and advice on a wide range of sports and physical activities at a local level to make it easier for people in disadvantaged areas to get involved in and engage in a more active and healthier lifestyle”.
See the full list of funded projects here.
Ends.
For Further Information:
David Gash
Communications Manager, Sport Ireland
dgash@sportireland.ie
087-2277643
Jun 3, 2021
- New strategy to shape the development of outdoor pursuits and activity tourism for years to come
- Public asked for feedback on how to enhance amenities such as trails, cycleways, waterways, beaches, mountains, bogs and forests
- Delivery of new strategy a key commitment in ‘Our Rural Future’
Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, has today (Wednesday, 2nd June, 2021) launched a public consultation on Ireland’s first ever National Outdoor Recreation Strategy.
The delivery of the strategy is a key commitment in Our Rural Future, the Government’s ambitious five-year policy to revitalise Rural Ireland.
The consultation will last for three weeks and will involve members of the public giving their views on how best to improve and develop our outdoor amenities such as our trails, cycleways, waterways, beaches, mountains, bogs and forests.
The public are also being asked to consider ways to develop activity tourism and outdoor pursuits such as cycling, rock climbing, kayaking, surfing, wind-surfing, sailing, paragliding and hang-gliding.
The consultation will run for the next three weeks with the closing set scheduled for 5pm on 23 June, 2021.
The strategy is being developed in partnership with Comhairle na Tuaithe (The Countryside Council).
Launching the public consultation today, Minister Humphreys said:
“COVID-19 has shown us all how vital our outdoor amenities are for our mental and physical wellbeing.
“Our new National Outdoor Recreation Strategy will be all about investing in our great outdoors.
“I want to get the views of as many members of the public and stakeholders on how best to develop our outdoor amenities such as our hiking trails, cycleways, rivers, forests and mountains.
“And I want this strategy to place a big focus on tourism, including adventure tourism. There is clearly growing interest in the great outdoors amongst all tourists, both domestically and internationally, and we are well positioned to respond to that demand.”
Minister Humphreys continued:
“Without doubt, outdoor recreation is going to be key to our recovery post-COVID-19.
“So let’s think big and ambitious. I am delighted that Comhairle na Tuaithe are spearheading this work in conjunction with my Department.
“Above all, I want to see as many members of the public as possible submit their ideas over the next three weeks.
“Together, let’s devise a National Outdoor Recreation Strategy that we can be proud of and one that has the capacity to benefit our economy for years to come.
“A strategy like this will help us re-imagine and revitalise our rural countryside, which is what we have set out to do in ‘Our Rural Future’.”
Dr. Liam Twomey, Independent Chair of Comhairle na Tuaithe added:
“Comhairle na Tuaithe has done much to support and facilitate the sustainable development of outdoor recreation in Ireland. The development of this Strategy is vital to guide the work of Comhairle na Tuaithe and indeed the strategic development of the sector across Government in the coming years. This consultation provides an opportunity for all to input on the future direction of the sector and I would encourage all stakeholders to participate in the consultation.”
This is the first stage of a two-stage consultation process. In the first stage, interested stakeholders and individuals are encouraged to share their views on outdoor recreation via an online questionnaire.
To input your views on outdoor recreation, please complete the online questionnaire on gov.ie.
Responses will inform the preparation of the National Outdoor Recreation Strategy for Ireland. The closing date for receipt of submissions is 5pm on 23 June, 2021.
ENDS
Contact:
The Department of Rural and Community Development Press Office
076-1006843 / 087-1734633
Press.office@drcd.gov.ie
Notes to editor:
Note to Photodesks:
Photos to be provided by Rory Geary Photography
Comhairle na Tuaithe (The Countryside Council)
Comhairle na Tuaithe is collaborative body which supports the development of outdoor recreation activities for social, health and economic benefits, and which promotes sustainable and responsible use of the outdoors where the rights and responsibilities of both landowners and recreational users are recognised and respected. It is comprised of representatives of farming organisations, recreational users and State bodies with a responsibility for, or interest in, outdoor recreation and the countryside.
National Outdoor Recreation Strategy
A National Outdoor Recreation Strategy is currently being developed by Comhairle na Tuaithe. Views on outdoor recreation in Ireland are now sought to help develop the Strategy.
Outdoor Recreation NI have been awarded the contract to provide support services for the development of the Strategy. They are a not-for-profit organisation with an expertise in outdoor recreation strategy, planning, design, development, management and promotion.
Activities included are listed below.
| Land-Based |
Water-Based |
Air-Based |
| Walking |
Canoeing/Kayaking |
Paragliding |
| Hillwalking/Hiking |
Rowing |
Hang-gliding |
| Leisure cycling |
Wild swimming |
|
| Mountain biking |
Surfing |
|
| Horse riding |
Coasteering |
|
| Trail/Off-road running |
Wind surfing/Kite surfing |
|
| Orienteering |
Sailing |
|
| Bouldering, scrambling, rock climbing, mountaineering |
Diving |
|
| Caving |
Angling |
|
Consultation
This is the first stage of a two-stage consultation process. In this first stage, interested stakeholders and individuals are encouraged to share their views on outdoor recreation via an online questionnaire.
The information gathered will be confidential and anonymous.
It is important that input is received at this early stage as the submissions will feed into the development of the new Strategy. At the second stage of the public consultation, a draft Strategy document will be issued whereby interested stakeholders and individuals will be invited to give detailed feedback before the Strategy is finalised.
The closing date for submissions is 23 June 2021.
How to participate
To input your views on outdoor recreation, please complete the online questionnaire gov.ie.
For those who would like to submit their views by hard copy, the form is available to print from gov.ie and can be sent by post to Outdoor Recreation Public Consultation, Department of Rural and Community Development, Government Buildings, Ballina, Co. Mayo, F26 E8N6.
Any questions on the consultation process can be emailed to NORS@drcd.gov.ie.
May 31, 2021
The Federation of Irish Sport welcomes Friday’s announcement by government on further easing of restrictions for Sport and Physical Activity. This is an important and positive step forward for many of our members who have faced immense challenges over the past 15 months.
In particular, the Federation is pleased to see the introduction of test case events for the return of spectators across the summer months and the resumption of indoor sport and physical activity from July 5th.
The Federation will continue to work with Minister Chambers, his department colleagues and Sport Ireland on further progress and supports for the sector as we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic. For now, please find further information on the newly introduced measures here https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/7894b-post-cabinet-statement-resilience-and-recovery-the-path-ahead/
We wish all our members a safe and positive return to activity over the coming weeks
May 27, 2021
- 86% of NGBs describe the economic impact of COVID-19 as ‘Negative’ or worse.
- 74% of NGBs have availed of at least one government financial support.
- 53% of LSPs will require ongoing financial support to return to full capacity.
- 57% believe COVID-19 will result in a permanent loss of sports volunteers.
- Report focuses on Economic and Social impact as well as impact on progress made and the future outlook of those within sector.
Today, 27th of May 2021, The Federation of Irish Sport are pleased to release an important report on the Impact of COVID-19 on the Sport and Physical Activity sector in Ireland. The report illustrates findings of a survey conducted with Federation of Irish Sport member National Governing Bodies and Local Sports Partnerships and highlights the significantly challenging circumstances of many Irish sporting bodies as a result of the pandemic. The Federation is hopeful that the insight provided in the report will assist in shaping further economic and social supports for the sector.
Speaking about the report, Federation of Irish Sport Chairperson Clare McGrath said, ‘This report was a significant and important piece of work for the Federation and our members. It demonstrates the immense challenges being faced by our sporting bodies and just how damaging the pandemic has been economically and socially. However, it also highlights the resilience and positivity of those working in the sector and their views on what is needed to emerge from the pandemic stronger.’
Federation CEO Mary O’Connor added, ‘In 2020 the government provided much needed financial support to the sector in the form of a €70m resilience package. This report showcases just how many bodies relied on such supports for survival and demonstrates that with continued support, the sector can recover and return to its pre-pandemic strengths. We have shared the findings of this work with Minister Jack Chambers and his department and look forward to working with the Minister to address some of the key aspects highlighted by the report’.
National Sports Policy Progress & Minority Groups
While the impact of COVID-19 on the sector has been widely spoken about in recent months, the Federation’s report provides a more detailed understanding of the social impact on the various groups accessing sport and physical activity. Despite previously published insights stating a rise in adults being physically active in Ireland and 65% of NGBs offering activities that target minority groups, 69% of NGB respondents believe that such groups, as outlined in the National Sports Policy, have been disproportionately affected by the restrictions imposed as a result of COVID-19.
Furthermore, 36% of NGBs have seen a drop of 50% or more in their membership numbers with both adults and underage members being impacted in largely equal measure. These insights are concerning both now and for the long term progress of the sector as a whole. Such developments stand to potentially impact on the progress of the National Sports Policy objectives unless supported appropriately.
Volunteers
The Federation has long championed the importance of sports volunteers and noted throughout 2020 just how resourceful many volunteers had been in supporting their communities when sport ceased. Thus, it is particularly concerning to see that 57% of NGBs believe that the pandemic will result in a permanent loss of volunteers from sport. Without such diligent and hardworking volunteers, many sporting organisations would not exist. While the financial impact has been grave for many, recovery efforts would be further hampered by the loss of invaluable volunteers.
More positive aspects of the report include that 67% of Local Sports Partnerships believe their organisation possesses the reliance and governance structures to survive the effects of COVID-19. Furthermore, the Federation is encouraged by the innovation and adaptation shown by sporting organisations, 91% of whom have adapted activities to some form of digital delivery. While it is positive to see 43% of people ‘agree’ or ‘strongly agree’ that they will rebound to pre-pandemic strength, it is noteworthy that 79% believe this is rebound needs to be financially supported.
NOTES:
The Federation of Irish Sport would like to thank the University of Limerick and in particular, Helen Purtill for her support in collating and analysing the findings of the survey.
The Federation would also like to thank the 50 members (35 NGBs and 15 LSPs) who contributed to the findings.
The survey of members was conducted in May 2021.
Full report can be found at: https://www.irishsport.ie/covid-19-impact-report/
ENDS
Contact:
Mary.oconnor@irishsport.ie
Sinead.conroy@irishsport.ie
01 6251155
May 26, 2021
IWA Sports Centre Clontarf
Virtual Spring Fitness
The IWA-Sports Centre in Clontarf are running a virtual training programme for their members. It started on the 22nd of February 2021 and has been running for 13 weeks. As gyms unfortunately remain closed, the Virtual Spring into Fitness programme aims to continue to support members and help them reach their health & wellness goals. Members have weekly check ins and catch ups with sports centre staff and take part in 2 live exercise classes each week. Everyone involved is really enjoying catching up with each other and staying active.
Employee Health & Fitness
The month of May was employee Health & Fitness month for the Irish Wheelchair Association. The sports centre staff ran online exercises classes IWA employees for 4 weeks in May. IWA Sports Centre Staff have delivered several 10@10 physical activity sessions as well as lunchtime and evening exercise classes to IWA staff. Well done to all staff who took part!
Virtual Club Sessions
Multi-Sport Junior Club Members from IWA have been training very hard since the 23rd of January 2021. There have been over 33 sessions delivered since this programme started. Fun physical activity sessions have been running on Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings for our junior club members ages 5-15. All the participants have been putting in a great effort over the last number of weeks in different exercise sessions. There are members taking part from all corners of the country. Some have been reunited with their club mates and have even met people from different clubs who they may have not met before. We are always accepting new members. Please see IWA-Sport Social media for more information or contact tara.fitzgibbon@iwa.ie
Oliver Murphy Youth Leadership Programme
The Oliver Murphy Youth Leadership programme began on Tuesday March 2nd participants from a geographical spread of Louth, Cork, Dublin, Laois, Galway, Meath, Wexford, and Tipperary. Over the last 10 weeks the members took part in online training in leadership skills that they will be able to apply in various settings. The programme aims to support our young members with leadership skills that will benefit them on a personal and social basis. The participants have become empowered to lead among their peers and become advocates for the work of IWA and disability issues through a structured education programme. They are the first group of young adults in Ireland with additional needs to have completed the programme. The group of youth Leaders graduated in the middle of May following their 10-week course. We were also delighted to welcome Oliver Murphy himself to the event!
Well done to all who took part and delivered the programme! No doubt we’ll be hearing much more about you over the coming years.
Coach Education
The Introduction to Coaching Wheelchair Basketball course is part of the Coaching Development Programme for Ireland and was developed in partnership with Sport Ireland Coaching. Two courses were held on May 26th and May 29th by IWA Sports Team Staff. This popular course is designed to provide participants with information around basic coaching concepts and skills to support them to become competent and confident in organising and/or supporting a basic level wheelchair basketball session. It is suitable for beginner coaches aiming to work with juniors and beginner adults in wheelchair basketball. Attendees will complete 3 modules, both theory and practically based, which include general information about the sport, classification, roles of a coach, LTPAD model, communication, session planning and experience coaching basic activities. For more information on coaching courses contact Shannon.pollock@iwa.ie
Return to Sport
We are delighted to see some IWA Sports Clubs including North East Thunder & Rebel Wheelers (pictured below) returning to activity this month. So many of our athletes and players are eager to get playing and competing. We wish everyone the best of luck returning to sport in the coming weeks.
Darkness into Light
On May 8th IWA-Sports Team members took part in Pieta House’ fundraiser Darkness Into Light. They braved the windy and wet conditions like many others to show support for the very worthy cause. On the same day IWA Sport also held the Annual General Meeting for staff, volunteers and members.
May 26, 2021
Meet n’Train:
Meet n’Train is a “new” 6 week outdoor programme that includes a combination of cardio, strength and stretching exercises to increase and maintain health/fitness. Cost is €20 for 6 week programme. Each session is led by a qualified instructor who will incorporate a wide range of exercises making it both fun and challenging. This programme is suitable for men and women of all fitness levels, from the complete beginner upwards.
| Claremont Stadium, Navan |
Tuesday 1st June |
7.30pm |
| Stamullen (St. Patrick’s GAA) |
Wednesday 2nd June |
11am |
| Summerhill (Astro Pitch) |
Thursday 3rd June |
11am |
For more details and reserve a place, log on to https://www.meathsports.ie/women-in-sport/meet-n-train/. If you have any queries please contact Lisa at lodowd@meathcoco.ie or call 046-9067337.
Canoeing for Men 35+:
Meath LSP in association with Ribbontail Paddlers Canoe Club are hosting a FREE Come n Try canoeing sessions for men 35+ on at the Boyne Aquaduct at Longwood on the following dates:
| Session |
Date |
Time |
| 1 |
Saturday June 19th |
11am – 12:30pm |
| 2 |
Saturday June 26th |
11am – 12:30pm |
The Boyne Aquaduct provides for calm waters which is ideal for beginners and those who have yet to find their paddling comfort zone. Places will be limited and booking is essential. To book a place please contact Ruairi on 046-9067337 or email rmurphy@meathcoco.ie
Paddlesports for Mums & their Girls:
Meath LSP and Ribbontail Paddlers Canoe Club are collaborating on a new initiative “Paddlesports for Mums and Girls” programme. We are inviting Mums/Guardians and their daughters to buddy up for a 3-week initiative to develop and experience a range of paddlesports. If you have a daughter age 13-16yrs, are ready to learn a new sport and experience a new way to exercise, then this is the programme for you. No equipment necessary as all will be supplied for the programme.
To be eligible, participants must be:
- 1 Mum/Guardian, Daughter age 13-16yrs
- Be able to swim & be competent treading water
- Commit to completing the programme
- Be enthusiastic and be open to trying new activities
Programme includes:
- Fun games/activities on the water
- Guided lesson over three days (3 hours each day)
- River Run on the third day
| Day 1 |
Sunday June 13th |
10am – 1pm |
Ribbontail Paddlers Canoe Club, Longwood |
| Day 2 |
Sunday June 20th |
10am – 1pm |
Ribbontail Paddlers Canoe Club, Longwood |
| Day 3 |
Sunday June 27th |
10am – 1pm |
Ribbontail Paddlers Canoe Club, Longwood |
Cost is €20 per pair. If you are interested in taking part contact Lisa at lodowd@meathcoco.ie.
Dance for Life 50+
Meath LSP is delighted to announce that Dance for life 50+ is back! This is a 6 week programme for all adults 50+. This will include in various types of line dances such as slow waltz, cajun skip and many more! This programme is ideally suited for older adults as it provides social interaction whilst improving many health benefits. It will help improve balance, agility, strength and flexibility. Cost is €30 for 6 week programme. If you would like to take part, please contact Luke @ luke.condie@meathcoco.ie or on 046 9067337. Spaces are limited so make sure you don’t miss out!
| Area |
Date |
Time |
Venue |
| Navan |
Monday 31st May |
10.30am |
Blackwater park |
| Trim |
Monday 31st May |
12.30pm |
Trim Gaa |
| Carlanstown |
Wednesday 2nd June |
11am |
Deerpark |
Run Jump Throw
Run Jump Throw is a 6 week multi activity programme suitable for children with Autism or an Intellectual Disability aged 6-12 years. The sessions will include a variety of sports. Fun Games and obstacle challenges all adapted to the participants needs. The programme aims to improve the participants’ fundamental movement skills and increase their confidence in participating in regular physical activity. Family involvement is key to the programmes success and siblings are encouraged to take part! Parents are also asked to remain at the venue for the duration of the session. To book a place, please contact Terry at tdonegan@meathcoco.ie or call 046-9067337.
| Area |
Date |
Time |
Location |
Age |
Cost |
| Navan |
Mondays
June 7th – July 12th |
4:30pm-5:30pm |
Meath & District League Grounds, Navan |
5-12 years old |
€10 per Family |
| Kells |
Tuesdays
June 8th – July 13th |
4:45pm-5:45pm |
Eureka House, Kells |
5-12 years old |
€10 per Family |
| East Meath |
Wednesdays June 23rd – July 28th |
4:30pm-5:30pm |
St Colmcille’s GAA, Piltown, Bettystown |
5-12 years old |
€10 per Family |
| Ashbourne |
Thursdays
June 24th – July 29th |
4:30pm-5:30pm |
Ashbourne Educate Together |
5-12 years old |
€10 per Family |
