It is absolutely necessary that we have this focus. That focus means resources to ensure all children can involve themselves in sport, particularly those who will have greater challenges. High Five is a programme run for children, particularly those with autism, in boxing clubs. My own local club, Clann Naofa, has such a programme ongoing. We have all seen the all-stars programmes run by the GAA. I am talking in particular about Dundalk Gaels, St. Bride's and Cooley Kickhams. It is absolutely fabulous to see. I will also speak to the likes of the Louth Disability Cycling Club. People may be aware of this club and of Kevin O'Brien, who has great interaction with the club on behalf of Variety. Variety runs the recycle mobility programme, through which families can avail of adapted bikes. These are absolutely perfect to enable children to cycle who might not have believed that was possible. It is brilliant for children with mobility issues, autism or Down's syndrome. It is a really good community interaction. We would have hoped that things would have been further on in relation to our dealings with Louth County Council on having a permanent base. I thank those groups that have contacted Louth Disability Cycling Club about putting a real base in operation. An example has been established in south County Dublin in the last while and I hope we will get something similar in Louth. We need to see that kind of support at Government level and at local authority level to deliver.

Sentiment score: 0.33

We all know the importance of sports capital for sporting organisations across the State. We are talking about this opening at the end of summer 2026. I thought it would be quarter 1 but once we have a date, sports clubs can work around it. I agree with what has been said. There needs to be added effort in facilitating local authorities to provide municipal pitches and sporting settings in some cases, which can allow for a whole pile of other sports. On the large-scale sports infrastructure funding, what is the timeline for that? I think we were talking about it being opened every two years. I have spoken to the Minister of State before about Louth GAA and its belief that it is on the reserve list. I suppose it is a matter of the works that are being done at the minute, not very far from my own home, continuing. Drogheda United FC was also on a reserve list. I would like to think that Dundalk FC could be in at the time it would be open. Anyone who has been to Oriel Park knows it needs a lot of work done, as happy as we are to be back in the premiership.

Sentiment score: 0.19

They will be shovel-ready.

Sentiment score: 0.00