THE ROLE OF SPORT IN IRELAND TODAY - THE FEDERATION OF IRISH SPORT IS THE INDEPENDENT VOICE FOR SPORT IN IRELAND REPRESENTING 72 NATIONAL ...
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Federation of Irish Sport Annual Review 2013 The rOLe OF SPOrT In IreLAnD TODAy The Federation of Irish Sport is the independent voice for sport in Ireland representing 72 National Governing Bodies of Sport and 28 Local Sports Partnerships
Our Vision Our Strategic
To provide a dynamic and
effective voice for Irish
Goals
Sport, promoting the value • To ensure that sport is • To increase the
of sport to Ireland while recognised and used operational
providing outstanding by government as a key effectiveness of
representation and tool in the creation of a our members
services to members better Ireland
• To strengthen resources
• To be the independent through strategic
and authoritative voice partnerships
Our Values of Irish Sport
Unity & Leadership, • To raise public
Commitment & Service, awareness of the
Progressive, Accountability contribution of sport
& Integrity and the work of our
members to Irish
society
2013:
Irish Sport by Numbers
40,000
jobs supported by Irish Sport
€2,400,000,000
the contribution of sport to the Irish economy
16,581
took part in the An Post Cycle Series in five
counties
€755,000,000
generated by Recreational Angling with 2,636
150,000 visitors supporting 10,000 jobs primary school coaching sessions delivered
by the FAI
€202,000,000
the value to the Irish economy of overseas 150
golf visitors countries around the world watched the
Heineken Cup final at the Aviva Stadium
€43,200,000
the Irish Sport Council Budget for 2013 67
international podium finishes for Irish Athletes
€10,000,000 in 2013, up from 61 in 2012
the economic value of the Airtricity Dublin
Marathon 47%
of adults participating in sport each week
1,064,000
people watched the All Ireland Football Final 5
between Dublin and Mayo on RTE of the top 20 most watched programmes
on RTE in 2013 were sports events
500,000
adults volunteered in Irish Sport each week 2
Cricket Ireland teams qualifying for the men’s and
245,333
hours of physical activity provided by the GAA
women’s 20-over World Cup and the Cricket World
Cup itself
in Ireland’s schools
1
200,000
people participated in locally delivered
Federation of Irish Sport representing 72 National
Sports Organisations and 28 Local Sports
Partnerships in Ireland
programmes
A good
return on
investment
no matter how
you look at it
In 2013 the government invested • Martin Irvine became the first Irish cyclist to win
approximately €75 million in Irish Sport. a world track title in 117 years, a World Cup gold,
This figure included €43.2 million in current winning silver in the points race at the World
funding which is the budget administered Championships and a European bronze
by the Irish Sports Council which supports
high performance sport, the National • Leinster winning the Amlin Challenge Cup against
Governing Bodies of Sport, the Local Sports Stade Francais in front of a crowd of 20,396 at
Partnerships and all of the programmes which the RDS
these organisations deliver every year. The
• The 13 medals won by Ireland’s sailors including
remainder was invested in the sports capital
a European gold for Annalise Murphy
programme, the continuing development of
the National Sports Campus and in the Local • Irish Squash Senior Women’s team winning a silver
Authority swimming pool programme. medal at the European Team Championships in May,
In 2013, the investment in sport by the along with a 6th place at the World Championships
government was the catalyst behind: • The 15 medals won by Paralympic athletes at Senior
• Rob Heffernan’s gold medal in the 50km walk World Championships in sports of Athletics, Cycling
at the World Athletics Championships & Swimming
• The Irish Men’s Cricket team becoming the first • Natalya Coyle and Eanna Bailey winning Silver in
team ever to win three ICC events in three different the Mixed Relay in February, being Ireland’s first
formats in a season. ever medal at a World Cup competition in Modern
Pentathlon
• Ireland Women’s Rugby Team winning the Grand
Slam for the first time ever • Aileen Reid’s silver medal at the World Series Grand
Final in London which was watched by a viewing
• Fiona Doyle winning silver medal in 100m
audience of 41 million
Breaststroke at the World University Games setting
a new Irish Senior Record • Jason Quigley winning silver at the World
Championships and Irish Boxing winning 20 medals
• The Irish Junior Eventing Team winning Gold at the
in 2013
European Championships
• 20,000 participating in Women in Sport programmes
• Barry Murphy winning bronze medal in 50m
Breaststroke at the European Short Course • Daniel McKenna winning the British Rally
Swimming Championships Championship and Craig Breen finished second
in European Rally Championship.
• Dan Martin and Nicholas Roche winning stages
of the Grand Tours of Cycling • Jack Kennedy finishing 7th position overall in World
Supersport motorcyling
Annual Review 2013 1
Living better “Sport is important. It
enriches all our lives
through
and has the potential
to do even more – and it
deserves Government
Sport support. It should not
merely be ‘nice to do’ if
there are funds available.”
Federation Annual Review 2009
Sarah O’Connor
Chief Executive Officer, Federation of Irish Sport
Government Investment, which began • Minimise the future cuts to current
consistently in 1997, facilitated improved funding.
development and administration of • Ensure sport was represented at Cabinet.
sport that is now delivering results both
in terms of improved consistency of • Reinstate the Sports Capital Programme.
performance on the international stage • Develop the National Sports Campus.
as well as increasing participation rates so
Much of this has been delivered and credit
vital to public health in Ireland. Irish Sport
must go to Ministers Varadkar and Ring not
is in a good place and we have sought
just for their commitment to and belief in
in the pages that follow to detail some
sport but for the progress made to date,
of the work carried out by our member
particularly in terms of the development
organisations in 2013 designed to ensure
of the National Sports Campus and the
that this is sustained.
reinstatement of the Sports Capital
These improvements cannot however, Programme. However, it is the first of
be taken for granted. Without continued these requests – the minimising of cuts to
investment in sport from both public and current funding – that has proved the most
Irish sport once again provided private sources much of this progress could challenging with overall investment levels
some of the highlights of 2013... easily become undone. The reality in sport down 27.1% since 2008.
be it the Irish Women securing the being that the money spent today has a
This funding, most of which is invested in
Grand Slam, Tony McCoy riding his significant impact on the future shape of
the National Governing Bodies of Sport,
4,000th winner, the achievements sport both in terms of participation rates
the Local Sports Partnerships as well as
of Clare & Dublin winning All- and international success. The contrary is
a number of our elite athletes is crucial
Irelands, Rob Heffernan securing also true. Fail to invest now and we will live
because it facilitates the administration
gold at the World Athletics to regret it in the future.
and development of sport nationwide
Championships, the list is It is because of this and because of our through for example:
endless with each and everyone innate belief that sport delivers on so many
undoubtedly having their • Ensuring coaches are properly qualified;
levels for Ireland that the Federation has
own personal favourite. These been passionate in trying to protect the • Supporting grassroots clubs and
achievements rightly made the future for Irish sport. volunteers;
headlines but for the two million • Putting in place programmes to attract
Like all sectors of the economy the last five
Irish people who participate in non-participants into or back to sport
years have been challenging for Irish Sport
sport, no doubt they also had their as well as systems to spot talent and
with real pressure on all sources of funding
own personal highlights. Whether maximise its potential;
whether it is membership subscriptions,
it was winning a competition or
sponsorship, broadcasting revenue, ticket • Running competitive and recreational
championship across multiple
sales and of course, the Government fixtures as well as domestic and
sports, joining a training group,
funding which is the very life blood sometimes, international events;
completing a 10k or a triathlon, of Irish sport on so many levels.
hill walking or climbing, enjoying • Attracting additional funding and
our seas, rivers and lakes, sport It was against this background that in 2009, investment;
formed an integral part of their the Federation of Irish Sport published its
• Developing and supporting existing and
life in 2013. first annual Review of Irish Sport under
upcoming international athletes; and
the title “Why Irish Sport Matters”. In it
we asked the Government to: • Representing Ireland in the international
sporting community.
2 Federation of Irish Sport
page 10
“We strongly believe that sport can have a major
HEALTHIER IRELAND
SPORT - THE KEY TO A
role to play in rebuilding confidence in our country.
In 2011 there were many examples of how our teams
and individuals delivered for us all. We believe sport,
properly supported, can do even more.”
Federation of Irish Sport Review 2011
page 12
The reality is in Ireland that for many, overarching long term plan for sport in
TO KEEP CHILDREN IN SPORT
GREATER INVESTMENT NEEDED
if not the majority of sports, it is the Ireland - a Masterplan for Sport.
Government monies that are the key In our Annual Review of Sport in 2012 we
element in allowing this to happen. Irish called on Government to do just that and to
Sport does recognise that all sporting create a cross Government plan designed
organisations need to diversify their to co-ordinate all investment and activities
income sources and it is for this reason, the relating to sport, thereby ensuring sport is
Federation has also consistently called for delivering to the maximum for Ireland.
a need to attract increased private sector
investment into sport. The point we made then, which we believe is
as relevant now as it was then, is that “once
We would therefore renew our call the plan is agreed that nothing should be
to the Government commitment to done that is outside of that plan”. At all times
examine the putting in place of a relief but particularly when resources are scare page 14
to incentivise private sector investment every euro must work as hard as it can to
SOCIETY
BUILDING AN INCLUSIVE
in current sporting projects to mirror the help us deliver on the potential of sport.
relief already in place for donations by
private individuals or entities to capital In our 2012 Annual Review, we noted that
sporting projects or indeed charitable elements of sport impinge on other areas
and arts projects. This is something that of Government policy such as health,
was recommended by the Commission education, tourism and children. How much
on Taxation in their 2009 Report. better could it be if all elements of sport
came under the one umbrella, recognising
Whilst the protection of funding was key at the same time the role sport has to play
to “Why Irish Sport Matters”, the campaign in these other areas.
was also designed to raise awareness about
just what Irish Sport delivers for Ireland. In that context all planned expenditure can
We are a sports mad country but there is a in the first instance be evaluated against
page 16
tendency to think of sport in terms of the the Masterplan and in particular, whether
the proposed spend will deliver against the
SPORT IS BIG BUSINESS
sporting activity itself and not the multiple
dividends returned to our society as a result objectives set out in the plan.
of that activity. The Federation believes that The Federation strongly believe that if
because of these ancillary benefits that Irish this is to happen then all funding will be
Sport has a key role to play in the rebuilding seen to deliver for all of sport – no matter
of our economy and the restoration of where the investment is being made or the
confidence in our society. Government Department or Agency where
It is the Federation’s view however that the it has come from.
full potential of sport can only be maximised We continue to live in difficult times
if sport is viewed in this wider context – in however, just as sport has been one of the
terms of what it delivers for the economy, things to sustain us over the last number
public health, tourism, our communities and of years, the putting in place of a well- page 18
Ireland’s reputation abroad – examples of developed Masterplan should ensure that
REPUTATION WORLDWIDE
ENHANCING OUR
the type and nature of this contribution in sport plays a key role in building a better
2013 are set out in this Annual Review. future for Ireland and her people.
It is because of the multi-faceted A vision worth striving for and if achieved,
contribution sport makes to Ireland that a lasting legacy that everyone involved
the Federation very much welcomes the could be proud of.
recent Government announcement by the
Department of Transport, Tourism & Sport SARAH O’CONNOR
that one of the Department’s priorities Chief Executive Officer
for sport in 2014 is to begin work on an Federation of Irish Sport
Annual Review 2013 3
Report from the
global forum
IRISH SPORT
SUPPORTS
2.08% OF THE
40,000
WORKFORCE OR
JOBS
A recent study by A.T. Kearney
put the global value of sport at
between €350 and €450 billion.
This includes infrastructure
construction, sporting goods,
licensed products and live sports
events. The global sports market is
growing much faster than national
GDP rates around the world and
is projected to grow by $145.3bn
between 2010-2015
4 Federation of Irish Sport
Given its belief in the impact and potential of sport, the Federation had
sought to ensure that sport was included in the programme for the 2013
Global Economic Forum. Ministers Varadkar and Ring agreed and the
inclusion of sport for the first time – the 2013 Global Forum being the
third time such an event was held – was facilitated by the Department
of Transport, Tourism & Sport who in conjunction with their colleagues in
the Department of Foreign Affairs designed a session aimed at discussing
the role of sport in addressing other national priorities.
The session entitled “Promoting the interests of Ireland and
its people abroad through Sport” was well attended by Forum
Bringing Sport to Ireland
attendees reflecting perhaps, the power of sport to generate The social and economic benefits of hosting sports events in
both interest and debate. The discussion was led by a panel Ireland was discussed with the example of the Notre Dame
comprised of Paraic Duffy, Hugo MacNeill, Kevin O’Brien, v Navy American Football game cited as an example. It was
Eugenie Buckley and Martin Naughton. Newstalk’s Ger Gilroy recognised however that the hosting of such events requires
was moderator. co-operation, commitment and investment by a large number of
stakeholders including the public. It was recognised that Ireland
The power of sport to generate economic returns for now has a sporting infrastructure that would facilitate the
Ireland through the hosting of appropriate sporting events hosting of large scale events and that there was increased co-
as well as sport’s ability to create goodwill for Ireland operation between sporting bodies which made things possible
overseas provided the main focus of the discussion. Much now that would have been impossible previously. The possibility
was made of the significant economic and reputational of establishing a national bidding agency or steering group to
success of the Notre Dame v Navy American Football game co-ordinate these efforts as well as facilitate the exploitation of
in September 2012, the fact that sport supports in excess learnings from both the bidding for and hosting of events was
of 40,000 jobs in Ireland, sport’s role in strengthening suggested. The success of a similar type body in Denmark was
communities and improving public health as well as cited as a possible model for Ireland to look at in this context.
its role in promoting Ireland’s culture and identity.
A number of recommendations and ideas for exploration Promoting Irish Sport Abroad
emerged some of which attracted particular interest as It was widely agreed that the connections created by sport
detailed below: and Irish sportspeople should be utilised to establish trade links
and that as a country we should do more to exploit the goodwill
• High profile and internationally recognised sports people
created by sport. Reference was made to the GAA’s global
should be invited by the political leadership to act as tourism
expansion which has created a vibrant Irish network overseas
ambassadors for Ireland
with many clubs operating in geographic areas where Ireland is
• Ireland should be promoted as a destination for large scale working to establish or strengthen economic links. Ways should
sporting events be examined at exploiting this network to Ireland’s economic
• Irish sport should be promoted globally and reputational advantage.
• Ireland should explore the possibility of using overseas Irish
Sports Teams travelling abroad to promote the country’s
economic interests
• The possibility of hosting a “Year of Sport” should be explored
• Mechanisms for supplementing government investment
in sport
Annual Review 2013 5
THE IMPORTANCE
OF SPORT AND THE
ROLE IT COULD AND
SHOULD PLAY IN
IRELAND TODAY
It has always been the contention of the Sport is hugely important to Irish athletes on the world stage not only
Federation that “Irish Sport Matters”. society, to communities, and to the boosts the morale of the country but
That was the theme of our first Annual economy. It brings people together promotes our image internationally
Review five years ago and it has informed in a way that nothing else can. The and draws tourism to Ireland from
Government is also keen to increase around the world.
every subsequent Review. Not alone
participation in sport because of the Michael Ring TD, Minister of
does sport matter but the Federation numerous health and social benefits State for Tourism and Sport
has always believed that it has the it brings. The increased Government
potential to deliver even more for Ireland funding for sport in 2014 comes at Sport has the unique ability to unite
across a range of areas including the a time when there are many calls people and places in a manner that
economy, the health of the nation and on limited public resources, and cannot be achieved in any other way
our international standing worldwide. demonstrates our commitment to in our society. Individuals and teams
the sport sector. We also recognise demonstrate a unity of purpose in
We believe our views are shared by many the huge potential of sport as a pursuit of a dream that ignites a sense
people. For this year’s Review we asked a business. Whether it’s hosting major of good will and pride in place that is
wide cross section of people associated events, or developing sport science unparalleled in lifting the morale of
with sport as to how they view sport in and technology, we want to capitalise communities. This is done, time and
Ireland and the role it could and should on the potential of sport as an time again, at parish, county, province,
play. Here is a section of comments we industry to create jobs and growth. national and international level.
received in reply:- Dr Leo Varadkar, Minister for John O’Mahony, TD
Tourism, Transport and Sport
Sport is of utmost importance to
Sport is vitally important. It benefits Ireland. We are a sporting nation.
individuals in all sorts of ways in terms Sport binds individuals together
Politics of their health and fitness, and their
ability to deal with stress and pressure.
to forge communities. Sporting
organisations are at the bedrock
But it is also a hugely important of our society. I believe sport can
Sport is hugely important to Ireland element in holding communities play a crucial role in the creation
and Irish people. It is the lifeblood together and keeping them strong, of a better Ireland. Our grassroots
of many towns and villages especially during challenging times. sporting organisations are the
throughout the country, especially Sport - and the arts also - can be modern embodiment of that
through participation in the GAA hugely beneficial to individuals but most Irish of traditions: Meitheal.
and other community sports. It also to the wider community, and that Sport will continue to keep our
helps to keep people fit and healthy is why I strongly encourage people to communities active and inclusive
in mind and body. It brings people get involved in them. and I believe that we must nourish
together, promotes the enjoyment Jimmy Deenihan TD, Minister for and cherish our unique and rich
and mutual benefits of working Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht sporting culture in Ireland.
as a team and nurtures a culture Sean Kelly, MEP
where hard work and effort lead to The Government is protecting
success. These are qualities which funding for sport as best we Through sports we share the thrill of
undoubtedly play a part as we can in difficult economic victories and the agony of defeats.
create a better Ireland together. circumstances in recognition of its Participation in sports defines us, it
contribution. Participation in sport builds character, it energises the body
An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny TD
can bring health benefits in terms of and soul. Sport ... it keeps us alive!
health and well-being which can in Eamonn Coughlan, Senator
turn produce an economic dividend
through reducing the costs to the
health sector. The success of Irish
6 Federation of Irish Sport
“Sport can teach discipline, “Sport is hugely important to
competitiveness and pride Ireland and Irish people. It is
whenever we win or lose. ” the lifeblood of many towns and
villages throughout the country,
especially through participation
in the GAA and other community
sports.“
The positive personal and social Sport is incredibly important to Ireland
Business values learned at a formative age
are lessons that shape people for life.
and can play an increasing role in the
creation of a better Ireland.! The other
However, far too many youngsters key role that sport can play in Ireland
Sport is a vitally important element are falling through the sporting net in is in fostering inclusiveness. Sport has
in Irish society because it involves their teens, and governing bodies and the ability to cross all socio economic,
communities and the very fact that government alike need to do more to religious and political divides. Many
in most sports team effort is involved invest in grass roots infrastructure and sports are “all island” incorporating
means that people achieve a spirit facilities that can encourage sustained both Northern Ireland and the
of collegiality. participation into adulthood. Investing Republic. This is very important in
Denis O’Brien, Chairman, Digicel in sport is investing in our own future. fostering normal relations between all
Group Niall McEvoy, CEO, Teamer traditions on this island. The Golfing
Union of Ireland and the IRFU are two
PCH is a global organization In a society, which at times has great examples of this co-operation.
headquartered in Cork, with an teetered on the brink, where Conor Mallaghan, CEO, Carton
operational centre in Shenzhen, China misguided actions have resulted House Resort
and ten offices around the world. in dramatic consequences, sport
Building a company overseas needs provides certainty. It shapes There’s nothing like the excitement
a strong community and for PCH characteristics which bind and unify of sport to set your pulse racing. This
sport has been at the core of that people. It develops comradeship and passion is hardwired into Irish people
community. Sports clubs, particularly selflessness. It provides a platform and not only defines our culture but
in our case the Shenzhen Celts Gaelic where people can contribute to the also showcases Ireland on the world
Football Club, has helped our people lives of others, an environment where stage. Whether it’s Thomond Park,
to network, share ideas, make personal there is a willingness to pay things Croke Park or just a Sunday morning
and professional connections, and forward, to repay what you owe to kick around, there’s nothing like sport
to showcase Irish culture to local others. It creates an environment to get the juices flowing.
communities in Asia. where we look for substance, not Patrick Kennedy, CEO, Paddy
Liam Casey, CEO, PCH fashion. It develops philosophies, not Power
International brands, and allows us dream of self-
fulfilment. It challenges us to achieve
Sport is of course important to Ireland the ambition that lies within us. It is
and in particular to the health of a unique, awe-inspiring blend where
women. Healthy women are essential a desire to compete is mixed with
to a successful business. In addition, the desire to cooperate. It makes the
as a former healthcare worker I would moment worth living.
advocate everyone to participate in Jason Cowman, Founder, Kitman
physical activity as this will help reduce Labs
the cost to our health service which is
in turn good business for Ireland. Sport is one of Ireland’s most powerful “We also recognise the huge
Norah Casey, Chairperson, unifiers. 7 in 10 Irish peoples’ favorite
sponsorship is in sport, stimulating
potential of sport as a business.
Harmonia
major investment by Irish business in Whether it’s hosting major
Sport can teach discipline, a move to be part of memories worth
competitiveness and pride whenever millions. Sport helps build trust in events, or developing sport
we win or lose. It allows us to see
the difference between possible and
people and business and people feel
enlivened and are stimulated to live
science and technology, we want
impossible and that we can achieve with confidence when sport is at play. to capitalise on the potential of
everything if we really want it.
Mike Sikorski, CEO, Huggity
John Trainor, MD, Onside
sport as an industry to create
jobs and growth. “
Annual Review 2013 7
THE IMPORTANCE OF SPORT
AND THE ROLE IT COULD AND
SHOULD PLAY IN IRELAND TODAY
State funding of sport has two basic is not just what it does now, but the
Media purposes: to fund elite sport to keep
Ireland competitive internationally,
huge potential it has to mobilize and
unite communities across the country,
and to promote participation levels improve individual wellbeing, and
The evidence that sport has a and healthier lifestyles. On both counts, deliver more growth in tourism and to
material benefit to the country is Ireland is a long way off where it should make an even greater contribution to
overwhelming. Thinking coldly be, and this is almost entirely because the Irish economy. Sport is an essential
about the pure economics of the there is not just a lack of vision, but part of Ireland now but it can also be a
situation then investment in sport worse still, a failure of imagination. much bigger part of a better Ireland.
makes sense as a health, tourism, Politicians and policy makers have Seamus Mulconry, Executive
education and social policy. struggled to actually see sport for what Director, Philanthropy Ireland
Ger Gilroy, Sports Editor, it is. Sport is good for Ireland. It is good
Newstalk for our sense of wellbeing, it is good for Sport is indispensable to Irish society
our sense of identity, it is good for our as at its core sport and activity feeds
I believe the State should concentrate national sense of purpose, and - yes it’s the soul of our people. Sport is Art. If
its investment in sport in encouraging ok to say it - it’s good for our economy. we were to invest in sport and other
as many people as possible to John Greene, Sports Editor, forms of artistic self-expression alone
participate in sport, rather than to Sunday Independent as our national health strategy I am
facilitate them as spectators. convinced we would eradicate all the
Vincent Browne, Journalist symptoms of dis-ease that afflict our
people and as a result would create
Sport at international level can have
a galvanising effect on the country
Philanthropy an abundantly healthy nation.
Tony Griffin, Clare Hurling All
like nothing else and that can be true Star and Social Entrepreneur
in defeat as well as victory; just think In a world consumed by electronic
back to the excitement generated by connectivity, where we are constantly The importance of sport for our
the rugby team’s performance against in touch but all alone, sport offers an country has never been greater. The
the All Blacks last November. At a outlet for the most basic of our human inner, unseen benefits it gives to
recreational level, the positive short and desires and engages us with each those struggling with their mental
long term health benefits to leading an other in (mostly) honest endeavour. health is enormous. With the genuine
active, sporty lifestyle are so obvious Through these sporting interactions emphasis on the development of the
they hardly need explaining. we learn about ourselves and others, overall person, a sporting group or
we dig deep and ask questions, and organisation can help to cultivate
Eoin McDevitt, Second Captains
understand to treat the two impostors the fertile ground that can empower
The role of sport in Ireland now goes of victory and defeat with unanimity. its members to live their lives from
beyond words, providing a range Kingsley Aikins, Diaspora the inside out and help to make
of benefits for health and wellbeing Matters this world a more fulfilling and
beyond anything previous imagined. enriching experience for us all.
This starts from the young child and Sport makes a critical contribution
Conor Cusack, Cork Hurler
continues through to adulthood, both to the Irish economy and to Irish
and Mental Health Advocate
whether that is on the field of play tourism, and is one of the greatest
or standing on the sidelines offering generators of social capital in the
encouragement. And now more than country. The exciting thing about sport
ever that role of sport in Ireland needs to
be not only fostered but appreciated by
all involved, from political heights all the
way down.
“The role of sport in Ireland now goes
Ian O’Riordan, Sports Reporter,
The Irish Times beyond words, providing a range of
benefits for health and wellbeing beyond
anything previous imagined.”
8 Federation of Irish Sport“The promotion of active “Sport is the glue that binds
participation in sport and healthy communities and unites the
lifestyles in the community is an country. At its best it embodies
area that I am deeply passionate our spirit as a nation. “
about and something which I believe
needs to be prioritised.”
Sport unites people in a way nothing I believe sport is extremely important
Sport else can. On the field you leave
difference behind and play for a
to Ireland. Unlike some other nations,
we are delighted when we are
common goal. In that way, sports victorious in almost any sport in which
Sport holds a unique place in Irish are the great equalizer bringing we’re involved, and because we’re such
life. Nothing has the ability to unite together rivals and breaking down a small country, those victories do
a nation or divide opinion than the barriers. When everyone is given really lift the national mood and make
power of sport. Sport permeates every equal opportunity to transform us feel better about ourselves.
aspect of Irish life and is part of our their life through sport... regardless
identity, our values, our culture. Sport of their ability or disability... then we Cian O’Connor, Olympic
is the one true constant. Investing in help define our social fabric, where Bronze Medalist
sport has enormous social, economic, tolerance, acceptance, togetherness,
environmental and societal benefits. Ireland without sport would be a
helpfulness, and advocacy become
Only sport has the ability to contribute country without soul. It makes us
standard components of a past,
to our physical and mental wellbeing tick and gives us some of our best
present and future Ireland.
while playing a hugely significant role collective memories.
Mary Davis, Regional President,
in the development of the economy, Robbie Keane, Ireland Captain
Special Olympics Europe/Eurasia
environment and society in the
creation of a better Ireland. I compete in all corners of the World.
Sport is very important to Ireland for
You can be sure in China or New
John Treacy, Olympic Silver a number of reasons, firstly to give
Zealand there’ll be pockets of Irish
Medalist and CEO, Irish Sports the people of Ireland an outlet to
people screaming support. The
Council meet, compete and socialise in a fun
support at London 2012 and the 2013
environment. Secondly, it underpins a
The promotion of active participation World Triathlon Championships in
large part of the Irish economy. Golf in
in sport and healthy lifestyles in London from Irish men and women
particular and the tourism associated
the community is an area that I was deafening. Sport matters.
with it contributes a lot to the Irish
am deeply passionate about and Exchequer. Aileen Reid, Olympic Triathlete
something which I believe needs to Paul McGinley, European
be prioritised. I believe the status of Sport helps define us as a nation. It is
Ryder Cup Captain 2014 in no way elitist. Sport is for everyone.
sport in our society, and particularly
in the education system, needs to Yet it is something we are in danger of
Sport is the glue that binds
be developed and elevated as it is in taking for granted. Sport does not just
communities and unites the country.
other countries. The 2009 ESRI report happen. Sport needs to be planned,
At its best it embodies our spirit as
on sport in Ireland stated that the managed, financed and delivered.
a nation.
importance of physical education in Government investment in Irish sport
Martin O’Neill, Ireland Manager commence in 1997 – we have come
schools needs to be underlined with
national standards, and that sports a long way since then with increased
Sport offers many positive benefits
policy also needs to reflect a holistic access to sport and improved
to society, not only as a source of fun
vision which integrates, supports and consistency on the international stage.
and enjoyment but perhaps more
encourages all those involved in the Investment in sport is an investment
importantly within communities
provision of sport and exercise for in the health and well-being of the
where it can be linked to a reduction
children. country. We need sport more than
in youth crime and delinquency. I
ever.
Dessie Farrell, Dublin All Ireland have seen first-hand how success
Winner and CEO, GPA galvanises a country, and creates a Federation of Irish Sport
feel-good factor. When representing Review 2010
Ireland in London 2012 – I was
Sport is an important cornerstone for
overwhelmed at the amount of
the improvement of Irish Society. A
support and positive feedback we
more active Ireland would be a better
received and I was only too happy
Ireland not just for the sake of sport
to be giving something back.
but for the wider impact it would have
Jason Smyth, Paralympic on our overall quality of life.
Gold Medalist
Federation of Irish Sport
Review 2012
Annual Review 2013 9Sport - THE KEY Sport & Children TO A HEALTHIER in Ireland Ireland Investment in sport is paying off 10 Federation of Irish Sport
There is undoubtedly a growing recognition in Ireland of
the role sport could, and should be playing in helping tackle
our very real health problems. Whilst these problems are not
unique to Ireland nevertheless they are problems of concern
both in the short term but also for the long term health of
the nation.
The World Health Organisation has This must be one of the cornerstones of We must find ways of
highlighted obesity as the greatest public any National Physical Activity Plan and of
health challenge of the 21st century. course for the proposed Masterplan for
encouraging people to
Since the 1980s the prevalence of obesity Irish Sport. stay physically active
in Europe has tripled – it is estimated that
It must be acknowledged that more throughout their lives.
in Europe 50% of people are overweight
people are exercising and the credit for
with 20% of them falling into the obese
this to a large extent is due to the work
category.
of the Local Sports Partnerships, the
In Ireland the figure is 60% of the programmes and the initiatives being
population either overweight or obese. put in place by the individual sports
A frightening statistic. But the problem and not least of all by the work of the
is not just being overweight; it is what 500,000 volunteers that ensure Irish sport • 600+ teams have competed in
this leads to. Physical inactivity leading happens. Some of the initiatives we saw ‘SpikeBall’ competitions and blitzes in
to overweight and obesity is estimated in 2013 included:- the last year run by Volleyball Ireland
to be the principal cause of 21% to
• 150,000 participated in locally • 40,414 members of Cricket Ireland,
25% of breast and colon cancers; 27%
delivered programmes run by Local up from 20,000 in 2007
of diabetes and 30% of heart disease.
Sports Partnerships
Physical inactivity costs €150-€300 per • 20,000 female participants took part
citizen according to two EU studies whilst • 49,542 are members of Athletics in local Women in Sport programmes
the Report of the National Taskforce on Ireland, up 17% on 2012
• 10,000 young people and 200 teachers
Obesity indicated that the direct and • 10,879 people introduced to sailing and youth group leaders participating
indirect economic costs of premature through ISA’s nationwide participation in ‘Street Handball’ seminars
deaths associated with obesity may be initiatives nationwide
costing the state as much as €4bn. In
Ireland:- • 3,300 people in 36 clubs and 60 schools • 3,000 women participated in the 4th
took part in Cycling Ireland’s Sprocket West of Ireland Women’s Mini Marathon
• Only 32% of Irish adults are meeting
Rocket Programme which teaches core
the National Physical Activity • 6,500 taking part in the 4 events on
cycling skills to kids aged 7-11
Guidelines the weekend of the Sean Kelly Tour of
• 79% of people over 50 are obese • 1,262 girls took part in ‘Tricks 4 Sticks’ Waterford, with over 40% coming from
• 12% of the adult population are Hockey programme in 14 geographical Waterford itself
sedentary areas in the past year over 6-10 weeks
• 19,000 members of Cycling Ireland,
• 47% of adults are physically active, up • 8,500 members of Triathlon Ireland, up a four-fold increase in five years
from 34% in 2009 from 2,000 in 2007
• 40,717 women participating in the
We must find ways of encouraging people
• 12,000 primary school children took Flora Women’s Mini Marathon 2013,
to stay physically active throughout
part in Basketball Ireland’s mini- with participants raising €14m for
their lives. Equally we must find ways of
basketball in its first year of operation charity
getting those who have dropped out of
sport to become involved once again. • 70,000 race entries for triathlons • 50,000 active surfers in Ireland
in 2013
Annual Review 2013 11GREATER Sport & Children INVESTMENT in Ireland NEEDED TO KEEP CHILDREN IN Investment in sport is paying off SPORT 12 Federation of Irish Sport
Sport & Children in Ireland 13
In September 2013 the ESRI published “Keeping Them in the Game:
Taking Up and Dropping Out of Sport and Exercise in Ireland”. The
report published with the assistance of the Irish Sports Council is
undoubtedly timely, given the worrying statistics in relation to children
dropping out of sport - and the opportunities presented by the
Government’s commitment to produce a National Physical Activity
Plan and Master Plan for Sport in Ireland this year.
It is perhaps worth repeating what we • 500 schools took part in 8 week Play • 81,033 the number of children at 1,040
wrote in our Annual Review last year. Rugby Programme supported by IRFU’s Kellogg’s GAA Cúl Camps nationwide
“Four out of five Irish children do not Development Officers
• 1,514 primary school children across
meet the Department of Health and
• 250 primary teachers trained in mini 46 Primary Schools in Cork City and
Children’s National Physical Activity
basketball by Basketball Ireland County took part in the Cork Safer
Guidelines for maintaining and improving
Cycling programme
their current and future health. Over • 100% increase in Junior Membership
300,000 children on the island of Ireland of Triathlon Ireland in 2013 • The Irish American Football
are either overweight or obese. Children, Association’s ‘Schools Flag Football’
• 49% growth in schools Volleyball
who are obese between the ages of six programme delivered 320 hours of
programme since 2008 with 473
months and five years have a 25% chance coaching to over 1,000 children in 19
schools now participating in Spikeball
of being obese as adults. If children are schools in 2013
obese over the age of six the chance • Irish Table Tennis Association hosted
• 2,636 primary school coaching sessions
of being obese as adults increases to the Primary Schools Six Nations, where
delivered by the FAI impacting over
50% whilst this becomes 80% for obese Ireland won 3 of 4 gold medals on offer
130,000 children
adolescents”. • 19,700 school children bowled free in
• 15,120 students have participated in
Sobering statistics. The problem must be 26 bowling centres throughout Ireland
the Aviva Schools Mile Challenge,
tackled for the ESRI Report shows that as part of National Tenpin Bowling
in 112 secondary schools
while some 88% of children are regularly Week
involved in sporting activity at primary • 1,450 children completed the ‘Kids Run
school, this percentage declines rapidly for Fun’ 1 mile and 2k, organised by
during secondary school years and even Limerick Sports Partnership
more markedly as young adults going to
• 90% of primary schools avail of the
college or entering the workforce.
GAA Coaching Programme which
Undoubtedly sport continues to make delivers coaching in schools in 6 to 10
progress in attracting children to stay week blocks
involved or to try new sports, however
• 1,020 primary schools children
much greater investment is needed.
representing over 60% of the primary
Children, who are obese
Amongst the success stories for sport
schools throughout the county between the ages of six
in this area in 2013 were:-
involved in the SSRP Annual Athletics months and five years
• 46,000 hours of physical activity
delivered by the GAA in Munster
Festival, with many children linking
have a 25% chance of
into athletic clubs for sustained
Schools – the equivalent as would be participation in Athletics
being obese as adults.
delivered by the employment of 62 PE
• 13 schools now play in the Ulster
Teachers generating a value of €2.2
Development Schools League as a
million per year
direct result of the Donegal Community
Rugby Project – there were none
beforehand
Annual Review 2013 13BUILDING AN INCLUSIVE SOCIETY 14 Federation of Irish Sport
Sport & Children in Ireland 15
It has long been recognised that sport has the ability to bring
people together, to create communications and to foster
relationships that can last a lifetime. Sport is great for breaking
down barriers and for helping create a truly inclusive society.
It has been estimated that in Ireland there • A team of 14 athletes and 8 coaches • 100 girls in 12 teams took part in FAI
are as much as 20% of the population represented Special Olympics Ireland Late Night Leagues in a pilot project
who have disabilities ranging from mild at the Special Olympics World Winter in Dublin that can now be rolled out
to severe, physical to mental. Time and Games in South Korea in January and nationally
again sport has shown the way in helping brought back three gold, six silver and
• Transplant Team Ireland won 34 medals
integrate those suffering from disability two bronze medals
and finished 14th on the medal table at
into the wider community.
• 400 clubs in communities across the the World Transplant Games in Durban,
Just think back to the Special Olympics island of Ireland continue to support South Africa
World Summer Games held over ten over 10,000 athletes who train and
• Team Ireland competed at the 22nd
years ago now. The legacy lives on with compete in 15 different sports run
International Deaflympic Summer
Ireland embracing the ethos of Special by Special Olympics Ireland
Games in Bulgaria
Olympics in a unique way. Equally the
• 1,500 athletes, selected after regional
legacy of the London 2012 Paralympics • Vision Sports Ireland hosted ‘Mayfest’, a
competition, were represented at the
and the performance of the Irish team 2 day event where Ireland’s (and further
launch of Special Olympics Ireland
have ensured that the achievements of afield) vision impaired came and tried
Limerick Games 2014 in the University
our Paralympians rank equally with all of different sports
of Limerick which will be held in
our sportsmen and sportswomen. • Irish Wheelchair Association Sport
June 2014 with the support of 3,000
And our facilities are also becoming more volunteers hosting the European Wheelchair
inclusive. At one end of the spectrum Rugby Zonal Qualifiers in Gormanston
• 230 Traveller men and women have
there are the superb facilities offered Co Meath
participated in Fitness programmes
by our premier stadia which have built
including 5 month Step Challenge,
in disability features throughout. This is
Bootcamp, Handball and Health and
now being replicated throughout the
Nutrition run by Limerick Sports
country where the recent re-opening
Partnership
of the Sports Capital Programme will
undoubtedly accelerate the process • 10 new Football for All Clubs
established allowing 300 kids with
and bring the ‘Sport for All’ dream closer
varying disabilities access to regular
It has been estimated
to reality.
training and competition that in Ireland there are
In addition, sport reaches out to many
marginalised sectors of Irish society and • 360 new participants involved in
as much as 20% of the
programmes have been developed by sport and physical activity through population who have
NBGs and Local Sports Partnerships to the SSRP ‘Active Centres’ programme disabilities
ensure a more inclusive society. Examples at 2 community centres in rural areas
of inclusion initiatives undertaken by Irish of County Sligo
Sport in 2013 were:- • 120 participants in the Traveller Women
• Cerebral Palsy Sport Ireland’s Community Health Programme run
Football Team finishing 4th in the by Wexford Sports Partnership
Intercontinental Cup
Annual Review 2013 15SPORT IS BIG BUSINESS 16 Federation of Irish Sport
Sport & Children in Ireland 17
As we have said year after year sport is business – BIG BUSINESS. A recent study
by A.T. Kearney put the global value of sport at between €350 and €450 billion.
This includes infrastructure construction, sporting goods, licensed products and
live sports events. The global sports market is growing much faster than national
gross domestic product (GDP) rates around the world and is projected to grow by
$145.3bn between 2010-2015. The worldwide sports events market alone was
worth €45 billion in 2009.
In Ireland sport supports 40,000 jobs • 22,000 overseas fans travelled to Dublin • €755 million generated by Recreational
and contributes €2.4 billion to GDP as part of a 70,000 strong contingent Angling each year, with 150,000 visitors
while employing 2.08% of the workforce. attending the Amlin Challenge Cup supporting 10,000 jobs
Sport’s contribution to our economy and Heineken Cup finals, generating
• 3,500 cyclists participated in the An
is of course facilitated by government €21m for the economy
Post Meath Heritage Cycle tour, with
investment which last year was €75
• 27% increase in those employed as 350 volunteers, and an economic value
million. The return in revenue alone is
professional athletes or sports officials to Meath of €1.52m
spectacular – and that is without all the
since 2006
other tangible benefits sport contributes • €11.7m is the value of the 245,333
to our nation every year. • 313 people employed in Games hours of physical activity provided by
Development by the GAA compared to the GAA in Ireland’s schools
The above figures only partially take in
20 in 1991
the major spend that is generated by • €10m is the value of the Dublin City
sports tourism each year. As was pointed • 938 jobs supported for every €1 million Marathon to the economy
out earlier in this report, the tourism invested by government
revenue generated by the two sports of • €1 out of every €60 generated and
angling and golf alone amounts to almost earned in the European Union is sports-
€1 billion. related
And then there are the very substantial
revenues generated by events such
• €818 million is spent annually by The sports industry
Ireland’s 12,000 voluntary sports clubs,
as the All-Ireland Finals, Football leagues and branches in the Irish
today spans the field of
internationals (Euros and World Cup economy on goods & services play—from the food and
games in particular), Rugby’s 6 Nations
Championship, Autumn Internationals • €200 million is the approximate memorabilia stands at
and Heineken Cup, not to mention turnover by Irish NGBs each year with the stadium, to media
an estimated €40 million of this going
one off events like the Europa League rights and sponsorships.
Final (2011), the Emerald Isle Classic US directly back to government in PAYE,
PRSI & VAT The many participants
Football game (2012) and the Heineken
and Amlin Cup finals (2013). • €12 the return generated for every €1
in this market are
The statistics for 2013 show just how big spent by the GAA on coaching – in competing for a bigger
a contribution sport makes to the Irish 2012 the total return on investment slice of a pie worth as
was €54 million
economy demonstrating the potential much as €450 billion
to generate even more:- • €350 - €550 million – the economic A.T. Kearney
• Voluntary sport supports the value of Ireland’s sporting volunteer
employment of 8,826 persons workforce
including approximately 1,500 people • €202 million the amount generated
within the NGB & LSP sector alone for the Irish economy by overseas golf
visitors – with only 21% of the spend
being on “golf-related” activities
Annual Review 2013 17ENHANCING our REPUTATION WORLDWIDE 18 Federation of Irish Sport
Sport & Children in Ireland 19
During the sporting debate at the Global Irish Economic
Forum it was noticeable how the participants strongly
endorsed the important role our sporting teams, sportsmen
and sportswomen are playing in creating a positive image for
Ireland abroad.
Over the past twelve months sport • Barry Murphy winning bronze • Paul O’Donovan winning a Bronze
proudly flew the flag for Ireland in medal in 50m breaststroke at the medal at the World Under 23 Rowing
some 70 countries worldwide whilst European Short Course Swimming Championships and Claire Lambe
people from almost the same number Championships finishing 4th in the European Rowing
also visited Ireland for official sporting • Caroline Ryan winning bronze at Track Championships
activities during the same period and Cycling World Cup in Mexico • Clarence Kennedy winning 3 bronze
this excludes the countless visitors who medals in the snatch, clean and jerk
• Clara Peters bringing home Ireland’s
plan their own trip to play golf, to fish, to and total categories in the 94kg class
First International Ice Skating Medal,
walk our beautiful countryside or simply at the European Junior Weightlifting
taking Bronze in the Ladies Singles
to follow sport. It all adds up to major Championships, the first Irish athlete
event in Australia
enhancement of the image of Ireland in to do so
other countries. • Mel Lawther coming 8th in the World
Archery Championships in Turkey • The Irish Judo Association took home
And it is not just our most famous 3 medals from the African World Cup
personalities in the highest profile sports • Scott Evans winning the Cyprus
with Olympian Lisa Kearney winning
that are flying the flag. The emergence International Tournament
gold
of Ireland in sports such as cricket has • The Basketball Ireland Premier League
• Bryan Keane winning a World Cup
opened up whole new possibilities. The Men’s Senior Representative team
Triathlon Silver in Japan
impact of the Irish cricket team in India travelled to Birmingham to play
and Pakistan has been well documented. their counterparts from the English • Joe Ward winning Bronze at the World
Basketball League and were victorious Boxing Championships in Kazakhstan
More recently the Irish Ladies Cricket
to go with Jason Quigley’s Silver
teams were playing in Qatar, Ireland’s • Shauna Weldon winning a gold medal
Cyclists were in Mexico while our in the solo event at the World Baton • Andrew Smyth achieved the highest
Weightlifters, Ice Skaters and Judoka won Twirling International Cup in the individual all-around score ever by
medals in Estonia, Australia and Mauritius. Netherlands an Irish Gymnast at the Artistic World
Championships in Belgium
Below are just some of the athletes and • Derek Burnett won Bronze in Olympic
teams that represented Ireland with Trap at the European Championships in • Irish Tug of War Team came 4th at the
distinction around the world:- Germany World Championships in Colombia
• Rob Heffernan winning gold medal • Sarah Lavin winning Silver at the • Ireland ranked no.1 in Tatami Sport at
in 50km walk at World Athletics Junior European Championships in the World Combat Games in Russia
Championships in Moscow Italy in the 100 metres hurdles
• Derval O’Rourke and Ciaran O’Lionard • Ireland being the first-ever country Over the past twelve
winning bronze medals at the to win 3 global tournaments in the 3
European Indoor Championships in different cricket formats in a single year months sport proudly
Gothenburg, in the 60m hurdles and and, by doing so, qualifying for the flew the flag for Ireland
3,000m respectively men’s and women’s 20-over World Cup in some 70 countries
• Fiona Doyle winning silver medal and the Cricket World Cup itself
in 100m Breaststroke at the World
worldwide
• Ireland’s Croquet team winning the 4
University Games in Kazan setting Nations Championship and Andrew
a new Irish Senior Record Johnston reaching the semi-final of the
Croquet World Championship
Annual Review 2013 19Creating a
Return on
the Taxpayers
Investment
Note: Total Irish Sports Council (ISC) Funding includes Core Grant Funding, High
Performance Funding, Direct Athlete Funding and Women in Sport Funding,
please refer to Irish Sports Council website for a detailed breakdown
www.irishsportscouncil.ie
Angling Council of Ireland Badminton Ireland Bowling League of Ireland
www.anglingcouncilireland.ie www.badmintonireland.com www.irishlawnbowls.ie
Total ISC Funding: €10,000 Total ISC Funding: €480,734 ISC Funding: €24,590
Participants: 15,000 Participants: 17,000 Participants: 2,200
Highlight 2013: Hosting the Predator Boat Highlight 2013: High Performance claimed 4 Highlight 2013: Hosting of British Isles (BIBC)
2013 World Championships in Enniskillen. The International titles. Membership has grown for Championships and Centenary International
event was an outstanding success and with the second consecutive year and the new School Series, for only the third time in its 100 year
that experience behind us we look forward to programme ‘Shuttletime’ has been a great success. history. They were held at Crumlin Bowling Clubs.
hosting 25 nations in Cork for World Feeder Looking forward 2014 welcoming Para Badminton Over the 6 days, 360 players from Ireland, England,
Championships 2014. to the Paralympics schedule. Scotland, Wales, Jersey & Guernsey participated.
Ireland won the Singles and was runner-up in the
Archery Ireland Basketball Ireland International series.
www.archery.ie www.basketballireland.ie
Camogie Association
Total ISC Funding: €48,500 Total ISC Funding: €693,289
www.camogie.ie
Participants: 4,000 Participants: 41,250
Highlight 2013: In September hosting the First All Highlight 2013: The Basketball Ireland Premier Total ISC Funding: €384,283
Ireland Series Final with 600 attendees and just League Mens Senior Representative played the Participants: 100,000
one week later Mel Lawther coming 8th in the English Basketball League as a curtain-raiser to Highlight 2013: Unified camogie/hurling
World Championships in Turkey. the English Cup Final. In front of a 5,000 capacity sponsorship by Liberty Insurance of All Ireland
crowd Ireland won 83-81. Bord Gais Neptune Championships and unified sponsorship by AIB of
Athletics Ireland from Cork ended a 21 year wait when they won Camogie and GAA All Ireland Club Championship
the Men’s National Cup Final in the National series.
www.athleticsireland.ie Basketball Arena.
Total ISC Funding: €1,952,000 Canoeing Ireland
Membership: 49,542 Baton Twirling Sport Association www.canoe.ie
Highlights: Rob Heffernan winning Gold at the of Ireland
World Championship 50km walk. Sarah Lavin, Total ISC Funding: €360,043
Silver in Junior European Championships in the www.btsai.ie Participants: 3,000
100m hurdles. Kelly Proper, four Gold medals in Total ISC Funding: €16,518 Highlight 2013: Canoeing Ireland International
the National Outdoor Championships. Rose-Anne Participants: 660 Liffey Descent, hosting a leg of the International
Galligan breaking Sonia O’Sullivan’s national 800m Highlight 2013: Individuals and teams represent Canoe Federation Marathon Classic Series. Junior
record, running 2.00.69. Opening of the Athlone Ireland at European and World Championships, Paddle Fest saw 400 junior paddlers introduced to
I.T. International Indoor Arena. Development two silver and one gold medal. With the help of all 7 canoe disciplines. We had paddlers represent
Athletes showing significant progress: Sean Tobin, our WIS grant we completed our Roadshow, and Ireland at World and European Championships in
Phil Healy, David Cussen, Louise Shanahan, Aislinn had it performed for the first time at our National Slalom, Sprint, Marathon, Canoe Polo, Wild Water
Crossey, Ruairi Finnegan, Marcus Lawlor, Alana Championships. The Roadshow went on the road Racing & Free Style. Canoeing Ireland qualified a
Lally, Zak Irwin, Shane Fitzsimons, Siofra Cleirigh- and two clubs developed as a result in Portlaoise place in the Youth Olympics for the first time.
Butner, Laura Ann Costello. and Bailiborough.
Cerebral Palsy Sport Ireland
Australian Rules Football League www.cpsi.ie
of Ireland Total ISC Funding: €91,151
www.arfli.com Participants: 110
Participants: 410 Highlight 2013: CPSI Football Team Finish 4th in
Highlight 2013: Hosting the European the Intercontinental Cup. It was a competition
Championship in Dublin, which Ireland won with that proved to the management of the team and
the last kick of the tournament to beat Great CPSI that the young team have a huge future in
Britain by a point. front of them.
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