Robbie Gallagher (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Cuirim fáilte roimh an Aire Stáit agus cuirim fáilte roimh an reachtaíocht seo. I welcome the Minister of State to discuss this worthwhile motion and I congratulate Senator Conway and his colleagues on putting it forward. I take the opportunity to acknowledge the work of Senator Dolan in this area on an ongoing basis. As Senator Hopkins mentioned, local authorities throughout the country are doing their bit in the context of creating awareness of the physical barriers that might be in place for those with disabilities of whatever kind.

Everyone will agree that every euro we spend on sport is money well spent. The return we get from this as a society is immeasurable, particularly the physical benefits of exercise and participation in sport at any level. One thing that is noticeable as one drives along the roads of our country is the increased participation in sport by all. One only has to look to see people out walking and jogging, and to see there is increased awareness of physical exercise in whatever guise, which is to be welcomed.

It is important that there are no barriers to prevent people with disabilities participating in sport. We have a great love affair with sport. It is the one diversion we have that allows us to escape the nine-to-five grind of Monday to Friday or, in some cases, Monday to Sunday. The key is to ensure no barriers are put in place for those who want to participate, and I have no doubt the Minister of State will not be found wanting in that regard.

When we talk about barriers, I will digress and refer to my county of Monaghan. The Minister of State will be aware there has been a major landslide in the southern part of the county, where the Magheracloone GAA club pitch is basically split in two. The community centre attached to that facility is also in serious trouble, not to mention that some people have had to vacate their family homes. I have no doubt that the GAA club will be coming knocking on the Minister of State's door to seek assistance, and I am confident he will greet those involved with open arms. The club has a serious problem in the context of funding. I would welcome the Minister of State's comments in that regard.

I am delighted to support the motion. As I said, every euro we spend on sport across the board is a euro well spent and we get a return for it in multiple ways. Again, I compliment the proposer and commend him for putting forward the motion.