Sports Minister celebrates the role of sports volunteer

The Sports Minister has praised the contribution made by sports volunteers.
~ Friday, 2 December 2011

During an opening address at a conference organised by the Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA), Volunteer Now and the Sports Forum Carál Ní Chuilín, recognised the significant contribution made by sporting volunteers.

She said: “The role of volunteers in sport is an issue l have spoken about publicly on several occasions since taking office. Their role is highly significant. Moreover, the contribution that volunteers make to communities is no better evidenced than in sport.

“In fact, sports volunteers are the largest single group in the voluntary sector in Ireland, and if they did not give up their time and commitment many sports events would simply not be able to happen.”

The Minister recognised the challenges facing sports volunteers. She reaffirmed that encouraging and supporting them in meeting these challenges remained a key priority of the sports strategy, Sport Matters. She said: “Ultimately, it is the commitment and dedication of the sports volunteer that ensures many people, young and old and of all backgrounds, enjoy sport, fulfil their ambition and achieve their potential.”

Notes to editors:

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