Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)

The Deputy and I are ad idem on this. I find it quite distressing, to be honest. The fractious relationship between the Olympic Council of Ireland and the Irish Sports Council is unfortunate for sport. However, it is a matter for both governing bodies how they conduct their affairs. I do not have a role in the commissioning of reports. What struck me about the two reports in question is that each blamed the other organisation for the perceived ills in the system. Therefore, I am not sure whether either report made a rounded and mature contribution to the issues that must be tackled.

In this context, I have been engaged with discussions with representatives of a range of national governing bodies. I considered this the best way to obtain an understanding of the issues and, following from that, I am intent on implementing several changes in the future. Only yesterday evening, I attended the annual general meeting of the Federation of Irish Sports, which represents all the various sporting bodies. I was pleased to accept the invitation to speak at this very well attended event. I have spoken to representatives of the federation about the issue the Deputy has raised and it is well versed in this regard.

I agree with the Deputy that problems have arisen because we have two substantial competing bodies peopled with large personalities. That is part of the difficulty. My mission, which is shared by all Deputies in this House, is to ensure the best outcome for Irish athletes.

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