Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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425. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he has received a submission from an organisation (details supplied) relating to a funding request for the Asgard programme; and his views on supporting this worthy project. [46515/21]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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I can confirm that a pre-budget submission was received in to my Department on 24 September relating to a sail training ship. Officials in my Department will now review and assess the submission. I also understand that officials have contacted the organisation to arrange a meeting in order to discuss the details of the proposal.

The State operated a national sail training programme for many years, unfortunately this programme ended following the sinking of the Asgard in 2008. I understand that there are a number of organisations engaged in this area now. I am aware of the positive impact sail training has on participants. It is a valuable tool for youth development and not just simply teaching people to sail.