Written answers

Thursday, 5 May 2022

Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht

Sports Organisations

Photo of Cathal CroweCathal Crowe (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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140. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the progress on meeting the target of 40% female representation on the boards of sporting organisations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22113/22]

Photo of Jack ChambersJack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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Addressing women’s participation at all levels in sport is an important element of the National Sports Policy. That includes women in leadership positions such as board members of National Governing Bodies (NGBs).

I want to acknowledge the significant efforts that sporting bodies are now making around gender diversity on their boards. It is evident, however, that more work needs to be done. In the new Action Plan for Sport 2021-2023 all NGBs are being asked to achieve 40% gender representation on their boards by the end of 2023.  It is a particular priority for me and Minister Martin to enable women to take more leadership positions in sport and the 40% target reflects this prioritisation.

The most recent Board Composition Snapshot which was published by Sport Ireland in December 2021, shows that the overall percentage of women on boards of NGBs has increased from 24% in 2019 to 32% in 2021. The Snapshot also highlights that 39 NGBs have now achieved 30% or more women on their board, up from 19 NGBs in 2019.

Sport Ireland will continue to provide support to NGBs towards achieving the target of 40% and will monitor and report on progress.

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