Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)

I welcome the Minister's detailed response. The 17.5% rise in the Estimate for the Department augers well for the various headings. The reason I tabled this question was that Swim Ireland attended a recent meeting of the Joint Committee on Arts, Sport, Tourism, Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. As we all know, this organisation has come through difficult times and the Minister has been in office for much of that time. Unfortunately, corporate Ireland does not recognise the work of this organisation as evidenced by the serious lack of sponsorship. However, the organisation has survived due to Government funding which was recognised at the committee meeting.

The organisation has reached a point where it wants to move on. It has put in place well documented guidelines which must be adhered to by those involved in the sport, especially coaches. However, further departmental funding is required. Does the Minister envisage providing funding for Swim Ireland which will help it to move on? It is the one sport which has something extra in that in addition to providing entertainment, recreation and competition, it is a life saver. In the 1,400 swimming clubs throughout the country, there are a number of life savers in each club. Will the Minister give us an undertaking that any application made by Swim Ireland will be dealt with in a positive manner? Having listened to the wonderful presentation made at the committee, the group needs help. I hope the Government will provide help and that as result we will see corporate Ireland provide further assistance through a great deal more sponsorship than at present.

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