Eoghan Kenny (Cork North-Central, Labour)
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74. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment for an update on the Programme for Government commitment to work with three organisations (details supplied) and all sporting organisations to drive increased participation in sport as of July 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37963/25]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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Increasing participation levels in sport among all cohorts is a key objective of the National Sports Policy 2018-2027 and is a priority for me in my role as Minister for Sport.

Increased funding secured for sport in Budget 2025 has resulted in record levels of core funding for sporting organisations. €18.3 million is being invested in the National Governing Bodies of Sport (NGBs) through Sport Ireland this year, representing an increase of €1 million on the 2024 figure.

This record level of funding demonstrates Government’s commitment to supporting Irish sport and will ensure that NGBs can continue to provide valuable opportunities for everyone to participate in sport, in line with the National Sports Policy.

Sport Ireland, which is funded by my Department, is the statutory body with responsibility for the development of sport in Ireland, including with regards to participation. A key focus of Sport Ireland is to assist all NGBs to develop sustainable and effective structures with the aim of increasing numbers of participants and volunteers in sport.

I have referred the Deputy’s question to Sport Ireland in relation to their work in partnership with the specified NGBs to drive increased participation in sport. I would ask the Deputy to inform my office if a reply is not received within 10 days.