Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)

It is much more than a token. Tomorrow, I will announce the Irish Sports Council's package of investment in high performance sport for next year, which is a very comprehensive package. Government funding to sport has increased by 14% since last year, which is significant. Bringing home the medals is not just a matter of piling in funds. I will ensure that any funds that are needed to ensure success are made available. The current Olympic cycle is from 2005 to 2008. The level of funding to the Irish Sports Council is €186 million. In this cycle, in preparing for these Olympic Games, the funding to the Olympic Council of Ireland has increased by 74%, which is a significant investment. We need everyone to pull together and for all the organisations to work towards a common goal of having a successful Olympic Games. That is not just about medals; it is about participation also and building a good strong team for these and future Olympics.

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