Dessie Ellis (Dublin North West, Sinn Fein)
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160. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans for promoting women in sport in view of the successes of women athletes here. [4344/15]

Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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I recognise the importance of promoting women in sport and one of my key goals for sport is to encourage more women and girls to get involved in sport and physical activity. The Government is continuing to promote women in sport through its investment in the Women in Sport Programme operated by the Irish Sports Council. Over €16m has been invested in the Programme since it was established in 2005 to address the issue of female participation in sport in Ireland. 

Research published by the Irish Sports Council last year indicates that investment in the Women In Sport Programme is delivering results. The Irish Sports Monitor Report 2013 shows that participation in sport among females has increased from 39% in 2011 to 42.7% in 2013. This is a very encouraging development.

The Irish Sports Council, which is funded by my Department, is the statutory body with responsibility for the promotion, development and co-ordination of sport, including the development of strategies aimed at increasing female participation in sport.

I have referred the Deputy's question to the Council for further information in relation to its strategies and plans for promoting women in sport. I would ask the Deputy to inform my office if a reply is not received within 10 days.