Minister reiterates support for London Olympic bid

A successful London bid to host the 2012 Olympic Games would bring a once in a lifetime opportunity to Northern Ireland that must be seized with both hands.

This is according to Sports Minister, Angela Smith who was speaking in Belfast today where she opened the ‘Opportunities Conference’, which focused on the opportunities for Northern Ireland if London won the bid.

Addressing around 300 delegates, including representatives from the sport, business, tourism and cultural sectors in the Province, Ms Smith said: “Staging what has often been described as the greatest show on earth on our own doorstep would be a boost to sport at all levels. It would excite and inspire people of all ages and sporting abilities, particularly our young people, and would lead to increased participation in sport.”

The Minister also stressed that the Games would bring more than just a golden opportunity for sport and an incentive to follow a healthier lifestyle, it would also have huge potential for the economy.

“There are unprecedented opportunities for local businesses,” she continued. “Northern Ireland’s airports are within a relatively short flying time from London and this close proximity would enable us to make the case for providing preparation camps. We have already hosted world-class events and proved that we can welcome people from different cultures and nations.

Ms Smith also welcomed the emphasis the International Olympic Committee is placing on an educational and cultural dimension to the Games.

“Each region will have an input into the proposed Cultural Olympiad programme and the rich diversity to be found in Northern Ireland will add richness to such a showcase,” she concluded.

(MB/SP)