The Community Games are to focus strongly on integrating new communities into the national organisation through a targeted campaign that aims to reflect Ireland's diverse multiculturalism, the event's chief executive said yesterday.
About 500,000 children of 20 nationalities participated in this year's event and the organisers say they will put in a sustained effort next year to involve an even broader range of people.
"We are looking to be as inclusive as we can. That means bringing in more kids from emerging communities in Ireland," said Donal Buggy, chief executive of the Community Games.
He was speaking at Mosney, Co Meath where the first of the two national finals took place at the weekend. Around 3,000 children competed in a range of sport and cultural activities and another 3,000 are to take part in the second finals next weekend.
The Health Service Executive (HSE) is the title sponsor of this year's games. "The HSE and ourselves are two organisations with the same outlook. We're both interested in promoting healthy lifestyles amongst children, so we complement each other very well," Mr Buggy said.
At the finals this year, a dietitian liaised with caterers to produce a healthier menu that saw fried food and fizzy drinks replaced with healthier options.
Mr Buggy said the organisation was looking to recruit more volunteers to promote the games in localities around the country.
Incorporating everything from tag rugby, to track and field, to chess, comedy and dancing, children aged from six to 16 are eligible to compete in the games.
"It's not just a sports organisation. There is something in it to suit every child. It's about trying to get kids out of the house, participating and feeling part of their local community," Mr Buggy said.