The Federation of Irish Sport yesterday launched its Manifesto for Irish Sport setting out a five Point Plan for the next Government if Ireland is to deliver on its sporting potential.
The Federation represents 76 national governing bodies and 27 local sports partnerships countrywide.
The launch took place in the Royal Irish Academy and saw various speakers from across the sporting world.
Federation President Bernard Brogan, urged all public representatives to recognise the importance of investing in sport.
The five points covered in the plan included development of a national sport strategy, restoration of sport funding, extension of tax reliefs, provision of two hours' mandatory PE each week and leveraging Ireland's sport host credentials.
Newly-appointed chief executive of the Federation of Irish Sport, James Galvin commented, "Sport supports 40,000 jobs in Ireland6, adds an extra €1.9 billion in household spending and over €1 billion in tourism receipts.
"We know that 2.5 million people participate in sport every week here and that regular participation is the equivalent of being 14 years younger.
"We undoubtedly have a great love of sport in this country and we should capitalise on this passion. By restoring funding levels, by playing fair in terms of tax reliefs, and by creating a dedicated sports event bidding agency, we can become real contenders.
"Why shouldn't we host major sporting events such as the European Cross-Country Championships or the IPC Swimming World Championships in Ireland? Let's at least give ourselves a sporting chance."
Source: www.businessworld.ie
