Stormont ministers will make the issue of health screening for up and coming athletes a top priority following the deaths of four young people on both sides of the border, the Rev Ian Paisley insisted today.
Following the sudden deaths of two young GAA players in Co Tyrone and two young people in Co Westmeath, the First Minister (DUP, North Antrim) reassured MLAs the issue would be raised at this week's cabinet meeting.
Tommy Gallagher (SDLP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone) asked Mr Paisley during First Minister's Questions: "Is there any liaison between his office staff and other departments on the issue of health screening for young people participating in sport?
"We are all aware of the tragic deaths recently, particularly in Co Tyrone and elsewhere in Ireland within a matter of days.
"Would he tell us, since this has particular implications for the Departments of Health, Education and Culture, Arts and Leisure, if there has been liaison on the matter?"
Patrick Devlin, 13, died during a Saturday morning training session in Ardboe. His death came four days after 10-year-old Patrick Breen died in similar circumstances in Drumquin.
Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness has expressed concern at the deaths and called for more monitoring of young athletes.
Ulster GAA secretary Danny Murphy said it was vital the deaths did not impact on participation in sports which improved young people's health and also their social skills.
Mr Paisley said: "We are having, as he knows, a meeting of the executive this week. "This is one of the matters that the executive will have before it."