Speaking ahead of the dinner at the Holiday Inn Hotel tonight, Minister Campbell said: “Since Disability Sport NI’s launch in 1998, it has played an important role in our society, it gives a voice to our disabled sports people, not just the elite athletes but to those who want to lead an active lifestyle by participating in sport and physical activity.
“Disability Sport NI has supported some of our most talented disabled sports people to train and compete in their chosen sports such as Janet Gray, Waterskiing World Champion, Jan Dinsdale, Golfer and the Olympic and Paralympic medallists Michael McKillop and Jason Smyth.
Commenting on the future of sport and the development of a new 10 -year Strategy for Sport and Physical Recreation, the Minister said: “I hope to very shortly launch the new Sports Strategy ‘Sport Matters’ which sets out my Department’s aims and objectives relating to sport for the next 10 years in Northern Ireland. It is my aim that Disability Sport NI in conjunction with Sport NI will help my Department to encourage people to take part in sport and compete at the highest levels.
“Sport is an integral part of our culture in Northern Ireland. We enjoy sport, we cherish it, it inspires us, and it creates a sense of pride and projects a powerful, positive image of our community to international audiences.
Congratulating the 13 award winners for the contribution they have made to sport over the last 10 years the Minister concluded: “It is sportsmen and women, volunteers and organisations like these that have helped Disability Sport NI to tackle the under representation of people with disabilities in sport. The winners tonight must be congratulated for the huge role they have played in developing and extending sports opportunities to people with physical, sensory and learning disabilities throughout Northern Ireland.”
Angela Hendra MBE, Chairperson Disability Sports NI, said: "We are delighted to celebrate Disability Sport NI's 10th Anniversary by recognising the many volunteers and organisations helping to improve the quality of life of people with disabilities through sport."
Notes to Editors:
1. Media enquiries to DCAL Press Office on 028 90 258902 or email: press.office@dcalni.gov.uk
2. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
