NI sports opportunity to host UK schools games

Sports Minister David Hanson has described the recent Budget announcement on the new UK School Games as ‘excellent news’ for Northern Ireland.

“Starting in Glasgow this year and taking place in a different city every year until 2012, the UK School Games will build sporting excellence and interest in sport amongst young people from all backgrounds across the UK,” the Minister said.

“Northern Ireland will take its turn with other regions to play host to the UK School Games which will be fully funded. While I cannot confirm today the year in which the Games will take place here, I can say that when they do, it will be a brilliant opportunity to raise the level of all sports and inspire our young people.

The Minister said that in the next six years until 2012 there will be opportunities for young people from Northern Ireland to compete with their peers from each of the regions of the UK in annual national competitions in Olympic sports. It is hoped that many of the children who achieve sporting excellence will go on to take part at the highest level.

The Minister said that the Chancellor’s announcement was also good news for the nation’s health. “With one in four boys and one in five girls described as obese and in need of a lifestyle change, I believe this is a wonderful opportunity to motivate and energise our youngsters,” he said.

He added that participation in sport could also break down community barriers and develop team building skills which will last throughout life.

The Chancellor said that additional funding for training and facilities, £200 million of public money would be matched by raising £100 million in private sponsorship, £300 million from the lottery, providing over £600 million in total to boost existing sports funds.

(SP/GB)