The equestrian industry will benefit from nearly €2 million of taxpayer's money this year, while a further €9.5 million in funding will be available to other sports bodies in 2007, it was announced today.
John O'Donoghue
54 national governing bodies of sport will share €9.18 million, while the completion of four outstanding grants will bring the package to €9.5 million, according to Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism John O'Donoghue.
An additional €1.85 million is earmarked for Horse Sport Ireland, the new governing body with responsibility for the sport and breeding elements of equestrian sport.
The funding marks an increase of 16 per cent on 2006, according to Mr O'Donoghue.
The core activities of governing bodies covered by the grants include administration of the sports, the employment of professional staff, coach development and assorted development activities.
For certain sports it may also include hosting events and programmes aimed at increasing participation.
The Athletics Association of Ireland is to receive €1.2 million to fund its network of regional development officers and promote the sport.
The Irish Cricket Union has been allocated €72,122, as part of an overall €290,000 package, for its World Cup trip to the Carribean in the Spring.
Special Olympics Ireland is to get €917,000 to support athletes travelling to the World Games in Shanghai, China.
Basketball Ireland has been allocated €639,000 while Swim Ireland is to get €591,000 to fund staff development officers and promote swimming.
Announcing the funding, Mr O'Donoghue said the national governing bodies were the "backbone" of Irish sport.
"Everybody working within the governing bodies are central to the aim of increasing the participation rates in sport in Ireland. This strategic focus will bring benefits in health and wellness to all participants in sport and physical activity," he said.