Martin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Another issue I wish to raise concerns mass sporting events that take place. There are some well established mass sporting events from which people get great enjoyment. They are very well run and donate enormous amounts of money to charities. However, there are many other mass sporting events popping up around the country. It would be a good idea to invite the Minister to the House to discuss how these events can be regulated, how the numbers can be dealt with properly and how such events should not seriously impact on communities. Last year in Ennistymon, County Clare, there was a mass cycling event with between 2,000 and 3,000 participants. It effectively closed down the town for an entire Saturday and the business community in the town did practically no business. The town of Ennistymon has challenges. The roads in the area already are very busy due to the Cliffs of Moher visitor experience, which attracts almost 1.5 million people each year. There is also an issue with Blake's Corner, which is causing enormous traffic difficulties.

The aforementioned cycling event is due to take place again this Saturday. I am advised that it has been booked out at a cost of €40 per head. The two local councillors proposed a motion that the number of people taking part in cycling events that start and finish in Ennistymon would not exceed 1,000. That was being fair to the organisers and the people who wished to take part, together with the business community and the residents. However, despite the motion being passed unanimously at the municipal district and effectively being council policy, this cycle will take place with 3,000 participants. What troubles me even more is that I am reliably informed that a cheque for €3,000 has been provided to the organisers of this event to support it. Cycles and runs are wonderful, as are the people who take part in them. However, when is enough enough? Will there be 5,000 next year and 10,000 the year after? The Oireachtas and the Government have a responsibility to put some type of control, regulation and order on these mass sporting events.