Sorca Clarke (Longford-Westmeath, Sinn Fein)
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473. To ask the Minister for Culture, Culture, Communications and Sport if his Department has assessed the prevalence of sexual harassment, bullying and verbal abuse experienced by girls in community sports settings; the safeguarding measures in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [65294/25]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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There is simply no place for abuse of any kind in sport and there should be zero tolerance for any actions that endanger welfare, whether for players, coaches or those who work for and support sports across the country. It is vital then when concerns and complaints are raised they are taken seriously and dealt with in an appropriate and sensitive manner.

Sport Ireland works with National Governing Bodies of Sport (NGBs) to ensure that appropriate policies are put in place to take a proactive approach to safeguarding by identifying and mitigating risks to player welfare. It also works with NGBs to ensure mechanisms are in place to appropriately react to and handle complaints or issues when they arise.

In this regard, Sport Ireland has an extensive suite of Guidelines and Codes of Practice for the protection of children in sport, consistent with child protection guidance and legislation.

In August 2023, a new national Code of Conduct template for sporting organisations was launched by Sport Ireland. The Code sets out a set of guidelines and principles that promotes the behaviour and conduct expected from our athletes, coaches, parents/guardians, supporters, referees/officials, and club members. All NGBs were asked to use the Code as an opportunity to review their existing policies and procedures for handling code breaches to ensure that we have a safe and respectful environment for all involved in Irish sport.

Ultimately, NGBs are independent autonomous organisations responsible for their own governance including safeguarding procedures and disciplinary and complaints processes. I would urge anyone who experienced harm or abuse in sports or who wishes to report issues related to abuse or inappropriate or unlawful behaviours, to contact the relevant safeguarding officer or the Gardaí.

Considerable efforts are being made with regard to addressing barriers to participation experienced by teenage girls. Sport Ireland launched the 'Her Moves' campaign in 2023 in response to the Girls Get Active Research Report which highlighted barriers teenage girls face when participating in sport and physical activity. The campaign encompasses a number of initiatives, including the delivery of workshops on coaching teenage girls that are designed to equip coaches to break down barriers to participation for girls and create spaces where they feel supported. Over 1,000 coaches across Ireland have participated to date in this.