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Minister visits potential venues for the 2013 World Police and Fire Games

Wednesday, 17 February 2010

Sports Minister Nelson McCausland was accompanied by Dame Mary Peters today on a tour of some of the venues being considered for use during the 2013 World Police and Fire Games.

The Minister said: “In just over three and a half years, Northern Ireland will host the 2013 World Police and Fire Games and I was pleased to join Dame Mary Peters, Patron of the Games, on a tour of some of the potential venues.

“The World Police and Fire Games will see Northern Ireland showcased on the world stage for all the right reasons.”

Dame Mary Peters said: “I welcome the opportunity to accompany Minister McCausland and thank him for his support and commitment to delivering the best World Police and Fire Games yet. Today has shown the wonderful locations we have in Northern Ireland, and fuelled the real sense of anticipation around this event.”

During the tour, the Minister visited Belfast’s Custom House Square, the Mary Peters Track, Lisnagarvey Hockey Club and the Northern Ireland Civil Service Sports Association in Stormont. Custom House Square is the proposed venue for the 2013 WPFG Ultimate Fire-fighter Competition.

In conclusion, the Minister said: “It is an honour and privilege for Northern Ireland to host the World Police and Fire Games in 2013. It is also a fitting tribute to the professionalism and commitment of the PSNI, Prison Service and Fire and Rescue Service. These men and women are known for their bravery, dedication and commitment to public service.

“We look forward to welcoming thousands of their equally distinguished counterparts from across the world to join in the spirit of competition and friendship. Northern Ireland stands ready to make the 2013 Games a memorable event for all who take part.”

Notes to editors:

  1. The 2013 World Police and Fire Games will be held from Thursday 1 August to Saturday 10 August 2013.
  2. The World Police and Fire Games is a biennial event, which is organised for all “sworn law enforcement officers”. This includes, Police, Fire, Customs, Prison Service and some smaller enforcement agencies such as coastguard services and drug enforcement agencies.
  3. The Games last for 10 days and include a wide range of individual and team sports such as athletics, football, swimming, rugby, field and ice hockey, shooting, rowing, tennis, golf, 10 pin and lawn bowls, Gaelic games and cycling.
  4. Number of competitors range from 7,000-10,000 and come from all over the world with a large influx from North and South America, Australia, New Zealand and mainland Europe.
  5. It is proposed an Ultimate Fire-fighter competition will be held in September 2010 at the Custom Square, Belfast. For information, contact the 2013 WPFG office on 9060 0495.
  6. Media enquiries should be addressed to the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure Press Office. Tel (028)9051 5047 or email DCAL Press Office. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715440 and your call will be returned.