Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 355: To ask the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if Special Olympics Ireland will be assisted with proper funding in 2006 and 2007. [36191/06]

John O'Donoghue (Kerry South, Fianna Fail)
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The Irish Sports Council was set up as a statutory body in July 1999 with responsibility for the development of sport, increasing participation at all levels and raising standards. The provision in funding for the Irish Sports Council in the 2006 Estimates is €40.9 million, in comparison to just over €13 million in 2000.

The Sports Council provides funding to recognised National Governing Bodies (NGB) of sport including Special Olympics Ireland. NGBs are dealt with as autonomous organisations and grants are allocated under agreed funding conditions and with specific priorities in mind. The grant allocation process is run on an annual basis by the Sports Council, with NGBs submitting an application form covering their programmes for the coming year. I recognise the extensive benefits which accrue to persons with intellectual disabilities through the sporting and social activities provided by Special Olympics Ireland. Since 1999, Special Olympics Ireland has received over €4 million in funding from the Sports Council with grants of €596,473 in 2006. Special Olympics Ireland has made a submission to the Government on the development and funding of the Special Olympics Programme and this submission is being considered.