Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I agree with the Deputy. The Department is working on a physical activity plan and I hope the targets its sets will be reached. Successful sportswomen, of whom there are many in this country, do not receive the same recognition as men. The time has come to promote women in sport more. In particular, the national governing bodies and sports organisations must recognise the achievements of women and offer them the same opportunities as men.

In 2014, the Irish Sports Council provided additional funding for women in sport, including €142,500 to the Football Association of Ireland specifically to develop the women's game; €112,500 to the Irish Rugby Football Union to support the women's game; €384,655 to the Ladies Gaelic Football Association; €378,510 to the Camogie Association; and €166,930 to the Ladies Golf Union of Ireland. The purpose of this funding was to increase women's involvement in sport. The Deputy is correct, however, that more needs to be done and I have focused on local sports partnerships for this reason. In many counties, these partnerships encourage women to participate in marathons. Through the sports capital fund, we are trying to fund football, soccer and rugby pitches and provide tracks to give women who are dropping their children to school an opportunity to participate in sport.

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