Ireland's four Sydney Olympians are to be exempt from making qualifying or, even, consideration times for the upcoming European short-course championships in Valencia.
However, it is not yet known how many of the four will be in a position to compete at the event, which takes place from December 14th-17th. Chantal Gibney and Andrew Bree are certain to be on scholarship at American Universities, which puts their availability in doubt.
Colin Lowth and Emma Robinson, also third level students, will be closer to home and are anxious to compete at the prestigious event following arduous long course seasons.
The team could consist of four to six competitors and will be announced after the composition of a revised Team Ireland squad is finalised.
The British short course nationals are scheduled close to Valencia but, focusing on the Europeans is deemed the wiser option.
Meanwhile, National coach Ger Doyle confirmed yesterday that he will be seeking reappointment to the non-remunerative post for which applications closed last week.
