Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)

I welcome the Minister's statement on the amalgamation of, or reduction in quangos, about which he talked a great deal before the election. As Minister, however, he has a responsibility to set forward a strategy for the continuing development of sport in this country. Although I am aware the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport is currently in the process of assigning moneys set aside to develop a sports infrastructure in the various constituencies around the country, it is important that this is done with a strategic focus. To that extent, I am aware there had been discussions during the tenure of the previous Government about working with local authorities to ensure there was no duplication of effort across different counties and that, where possible, there was the capacity by different codes to share facilities and resources. I recognise the limited resources available and am aware of the pressure on the Government in that regard. Any money spent, therefore, must be spent with a strategic eye.

I would welcome if the Minister were to outline for us whether the Government is prepared to leave this to the various sporting organisations, providing them with money on an ad hoc basis when it is available or whether it will form part of an overall strategic approach that would see not only the development of the infrastructure, but the development of skills. That would mean the sporting organisations were collectively responsible for ensuring that Ireland developed its sporting potential to the highest standard possible.

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