AQW 36731/11-15

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 30/09/2014
Answered On Date: 09/10/2014
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to outline the provisional of facilities for the development of sport at an elite level; and whether there are plans to expand the provision of these resources.

Answer:

My strategy for sport, Sport Matters, has a number of specific targets dedicated to improving the sporting infrastructure in the north of Ireland. One of these targets (PL23) is for the provision of a minimum of ten new or upgraded facilities to support athlete development in Olympic/Paralympic sports. An associated Sport Matters Action Plan and annual Progress Reports provide detail on the actions being taken and the progress of delivery against these targets. The most recent report shows that this target has been met with 21 sports facilities being provided that are considered to contribute to this target. Examples of facilities provided include the 50 metre pool in North Down and new or upgraded facilities for boxing, cycling, basketball, hockey and athletics. Facilities were also upgraded for rowing and disabled equine sports in the Coleraine area.

In addition, the Sports Institute for NI (SINI) and a number of the satellite Performance Development Centres are recognised for making a major contribution to individual athlete development.

Sport NI is also currently developing a capital programme which aims to invest £17.5 million Lottery funding in sporting facilities over a five year period. This programme will seek to integrate the facility needs of community participants and performance athletes within the same multi-sport environment.