Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)

An Agreed Programme for Government commits to the roll-out of the local sports partnership, LSP, programme on a nationwide basis to provide the development of sport at local level. The Irish Sports Council, ISC, is the statutory body responsible for the promotion and development of sport, including initiatives such as the local sports partnership network, through which sports initiatives at local level are delivered and co-ordinated. The local sports partnerships are charged with increasing participation at a local level, ensuring local resources are used to best effect and making sure the experiences of participants in sport are positive.

Following an independent review of the local sports partnerships by Fitzpatrick Associates in 2005, my predecessor gave approval to the Irish Sports Council to extend the LSP network from 2006 on a national basis. Accordingly, funding has been provided to the ISC to facilitate continued extension of the network. The LSPs have received more than €16 million in Government funding since they were first set up in 2001.

The Irish Sports Council has informed me it has now signed heads of agreement with all 33 LSP-designated sites and there are currently 22 sites fully operational. At present, eight sites are finalising recruitment arrangements and an additional three sites will advertise early in the new year. The Irish Sports Council expects all 33 LSPs will be fully operational during 2008.

The Irish Sports Council provides support and advice to the LSPs and is working to create productive relations with the local sports co-ordinators, including the creation of a network of co-ordinators. The Irish Sports Council has provided training to the LSPs and will continue to provide regular information and training updates. It is also involved in the development of specific programmes, courses and resource materials for the LSPs.

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