Sports programme boost for local colleges in Ballymena - Ritchie

Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie MLA today announced funding for a two year sports programme for young people in Dunclug, Ballymena.

This programme, to be delivered through Dunclug and St Patrick’s Colleges, will be introduced in September 2009 and will include dance classes, rugby, basketball, sportshall athletics, life-saving and orienteering.

Margaret Ritchie said: “This funding will be of great benefit for the young people of Dunclug. Recreation opportunities for young people are not just beneficial in a physical sense, they educate them also in social skills and promote self esteem.

This programme not only aims to increase the level of attainment at GCSE for young people, it also aims to promote self esteem in the pupils and promotes teamwork, skills development and healthy competition.

Margaret Ritchie continued: “This programme also continues to work on the schools initiative, to develop greater collaborative working between them. This programme offers invaluable opportunities to the people of Dunclug and further demonstrates my continued commitment to this area.”

Notes to editors:

1. DSD is contributing funding of £22,998.71 to the Department of Education to deliver a two year sports programme from September 2009 to March 2011.
2. The programme will be delivered in Dunclug College and St Patrick’s College.
3. Media enquires to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9078. Out of hours, please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.