Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

632. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if legislation will be introduced to regulate road bowling; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18956/21]

Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Sport Ireland recognises Ból-Chumann na hÉireann as the National Governing Body for the sport of road bowling in Ireland. The primary aim of the organisation is to foster and direct bowl playing for the overall advancement of the sport. Sport Ireland does not regulate individual sports.

Ból-Chumann na hÉireann has formal policies in place setting out their rules of play including competition and safety. Additional guidance on the roles of referees and officials as well as dealing with disputes that arise out of play have also been developed by the NGB. All members on joining the association agree to accept the rules, regulations and decisions set out in its governing documents.

The Deputy will be aware that National Governing Bodies of Sport recognised by Sport Ireland are key partners in delivering the strategic aims of sport in Ireland, in particular the delivery of the National Sports Policy 2018-2027. Sport Ireland invests directly into the National Governing Bodies of Sport to assist them in the development of their individual sports. In 2020, Sport Ireland allocated €32,000 to Ból-Chumann na hÉireann through its Core Funding programme. NGBs in turn work with their club network and partners to develop and deliver the sport at a local level. This includes the effective operation of the sport, hosting, sanctioning and delivery of events and development of the club network.