Brian Leddin (Limerick City, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for his answer. When we encourage anyone to get involved in sport, we do so not simply for the competitive aspect of it, but we know there are lifelong benefits for the people who get involved. Of course, there are benefits beyond their sporting careers. There are the benefits to their clubs, which are central to their communities. It is critical that we invest in sport and it is every bit as critical that we invest in women in sport as much as we invest in men in sport. I have the honour of being a member of St. Michael's Rowing Club in Limerick and the even greater honour to have spent a number of years coaching a women's rowing crew who were successful on the water and in competition. One of the greatest things I ever did was to be involved with that crew. I never had to push them; they pushed me and it was a privilege.

Just before coming in here tonight, I spoke with one of the coaches to get a perspective of what the great challenge is. It was put to me that we need to focus on retention of girls in the 16- to 17-year-old age bracket.

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