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Ring marks the outstanding contribution by volunteers to Irish Sport

Volunteers are the heroes of Irish sport. I would like to acknowledge all of the 400,000 people who help to ensure Irish sport is in such a healthy state

Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport today honoured eleven dedicated volunteers who have made what the Minister called an ‘outstanding contribution to sport in Ireland’ at an awards ceremony which took place earlier today at the Aviva Stadium, Dublin.

The ‘National Awards to Volunteers in Irish Sports’, celebrates the contributions of volunteers to Irish sport. There are over 400,000 people throughout the country who voluntarily dedicate their time every year through the involvement with sports clubs and organisations.

The awards are an initiative of the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport in conjunction with the Federation of Irish Sports, which represents some 68 sports in Ireland. The scheme is also supported by the Community Foundation of Ireland and the Irish Sports Council.

Speaking this afternoon, Minister Ring said: “The contribution of volunteers in supporting Irish sports people at every level, from when they first engage in sporting activity right through to developing elite athletes, should not be underestimated. Indeed, the army of volunteers who dedicate their time and commitment to each sport in Ireland assist in building strong and healthy communities, while giving everybody the opportunity to be the athletes they are.”

The Minister continued: “This Government understands that sport and physical activity have huge potential to contribute to the development of a healthier society. We want to ensure that all people are encouraged and given opportunities to participate in sport and to enjoy all the benefits that sport can bring through developing a healthy lifestyle. Investment in sport is based on our belief that sport is an important part of our individual, community and national life. And further, that it can make a major contribution to some of our most pressing social and health issues.”

The Minister concluded: I am proud to present these awards today. The eleven winners represent a wide constituency of selfless people who have given their time, their dedication, their work, not for recognition or for reward, but in a spirit of generosity. I hope that today's awards will not only recognise the debt due to volunteers, but will provide encouragement to existing volunteers and reach out to encourage new volunteers for the future.”