Speaking at a reception in Lisburn last night, Minister Poots said: “I am pleased to have the opportunity to recognise 30 years of Special Olympics in Ireland. For three decades now, the Special Olympics have given people with learning disabilities the opportunity to develop physical fitness, enhance social skills and build friendships through interaction and team spirit.
“The Special Olympics offer athletes a lifetime of learning through sport and the achievements of those involved is an inspiration to us all. Special Olympics relies heavily on volunteering and it would not exist today were it not for the energy, enthusiasm and commitment of all those people working hard behind the scenes. I would like to recognise all those who have been volunteers over the past 30 years, to mark their achievements and thank them for their on-going work."
The Minister continued: “Shortly I will be launching a new 10 year Sport and Physical Recreation Strategy. The aim of the Strategy is get people into sport and physical recreation especially from among under-represented groups. The Strategy will promote an active lifestyle regardless of age, gender, social background or disability.
“The Special Olympics are a terrific opportunity to create a greater awareness of the possibilities available for our young people and encourage everyone to get involved in sport at the every level.”
Notes to Editors:
- The Special Olympics Ireland Games are held every four years and they offer athletics with a learning disability an opportunity to participate at the highest level of sporting competition available in Ireland. The 2006 Games were held in Belfast from Wednesday 21st June to Sunday 25th June.
- The teams for the 2007 Special Olympics World Games were selected from the 2,000 athletes who completed in the Games in Belfast. In addition to the athletes, the Games also attracted 500 coaches and delegates, 5,500 volunteers and 4,000 families and guests to the region.
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