Speaking today at the official opening of Salto Gymnastics centre in Lisburn, Minister Poots said: “Lord Coe’s visit signals that Northern Ireland does have an important role to play in supporting the success of the London 2012 Games. It is essential that we explore the opportunities that exist for Northern Ireland to engage in and contribute to developments in relation to 2012, both in the run-up and the involvement of the games. We are actively exploring what those potential benefits are and we aim to realise those opportunities in terms of legacy from the games, for our benefit and the benefit of our future generations.”
Sebastian Coe’s visit coincides with the launch of the NI Sports Strategy which is currently out for consultation. The strategy sets out the vision for sport over the next 10 years and presents Northern Ireland with a significant opportunity to ensure sport is placed on a clear and sound footing for the future. Sport in Northern Ireland is facing major challenges and significant difficulties. Evidence suggests the participation rates are amongst the lowest in the UK and that many of the sporting facilities require substantial development and modernisation.
The Minister continued: “Salto is an excellent example of what can be achieved and made available for the benefit of the people in our local communities and meet their diverse needs with a range of activities and classes being offered and optimised. It is also an excellent example of what can be delivered through working in partnership, and I am pleased that my Department through SportNI were able to contribute in terms of funding arrangements. Sport affects us all and I would encourage you all to view the draft sports strategy and consider how you would like sport to be developed throughout the region in the lead up to London 2012.”
Also speaking at the opening of Salto, Seb Coe said: “I am delighted to return to Northern Ireland and in particular Salto Gymnastics Centre, to see first hand this excellent example of achievement. I would like to congratulate all those involved in bringing this idea to fruition and I am sure the benefits are being felt throughout the community. As you know, the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games are an opportunity to change lives on and off the sporting field. The Games are not just about sport, they encompass all aspects of our daily lives and can play a vital role in improving community cohesion, public health, education and skills, economic growth, social development and attracting tourists to Northern Ireland. I would like to take this opportunity to wish the members of Salto every success in the future."
The draft sports strategy consultation is available on DCAL website – www.dcalni.gov.uk. The closing date for responses is 9 January 2008.
Notes to Editors:
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