Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome Mr. English and his colleagues and thank them for their detailed presentation. They outlined a vision - which is not just confined to sport, although that is obviously very important - of the wider benefits that accrue from participation in Special Olympics. When we think of the Special Olympics, all of us think of the iconic event in Croke Park in 2003 and the huge buy-in and positivity that was generated in towns and villages throughout the island. If I recall correctly, approximately 30,000 volunteers participated and assisted the participants from 150 countries. It was a really fabulous time for all of the participants and for all Irish people when the event was hosted here. However, it is not just about identification with the major events, but the work that goes on each day in so many parishes, towns and villages throughout the country. The people who are both participating in the sport and helping in a voluntary capacity deserve great credit.

Is there good access to public sporting facilities and recreational facilities that are in public ownership or the ownership of other sporting organisations? The witness mentioned the more challenging environment with regard to raising funds in society generally, and the reduction in the Irish Sports Council grant. Does Special Olympics Ireland get funding in this State from the local sports partnerships? They were established five or six years ago on a county basis.

The witnesses outlined the broader educational and community remit very well. The education and training boards have replaced the vocational education committees, VECs. To my knowledge, over the years the VECs had a sporting and youth grants element in their expenditure each year. Does Special Olympics Ireland manage to get support from the local sports partnerships, which are under the remit of the local authorities, and from the sporting grants disbursed by the education and training boards?

The vision the witnesses outlined is very commendable and I compliment them on their excellent work and the great support they give to so many worthy people throughout this island and, indeed, internationally.