Working across community, voluntary and statutory agencies to provide opportunities for young people to become physically active: the story in Limerick Regeneration Areas

University of Limerick – Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences Duration: 1 year full-time / 2 years part-time
Supported by the University of Limerick and associated partners a studentship of up to €18,000 plus fees* is available.

University of Limerick
The University of Limerick (UL) with over 11,000 students and 1,300, staff is a young, energetic and enterprising University with a proud record of innovation in education and excellence in research and scholarship. UL is situated on a superb riverside campus of over 130 hectares with the River Shannon as a unifying focal point. Outstanding recreational, cultural and sporting facilities further enhance this exceptional learning and working environment

Project title: Working across community, voluntary and statutory agencies to provide opportunities for young people to become physically active: the story in Limerick
The research aims to identify and map the physical activity and sporting initiatives and programmes that are available to young people in the Limerick Regeneration Areas, collecting base-line data that will assess the extent to which they are working towardstheir stated objectives. The research will also examine the effectiveness of particular initiatives and programmes in accommodating young people’s involvement in physical activity and the extent to which young people are encouraged to maintain an involvement in physical activity and sport through such initiatives and programmes. This will provide a sense of who is engaging in physical activities, the issues and challenges faced by the key stakeholders, and recommendations on best practice.

Requirements
The successful candidate will work in partnership with the relevant local community, voluntary and statutory agency providers. Experience of working with young people in community, voluntary and / or statutory setting is essential as is a qualification relevant to physical education, health, sport or a related discipline. An ability to communicate in a clear, concise manner and work as part of a team is essential. An ability to work with a wide range of people from diverse backgrounds and relate to and engage with young people is also essential. Applicants should have excellent oral and written communication skills, as well as confidence in research methods.

For an informal discussion on this project please contact Dr Ann MacPhail:
T: (+353) 061234155 E-mail: Ann.MacPhail@ul.ie
Start date: Negotiable

Entry requirements
Applicants should have a first or second class honours degree or equivalent in physical education, health, sport or a related discipline.

Funding
*Supported by The University of Limerick and Limerick Regeneration, Limerick City Sports Partnership and the Irish Sports Council this studentship will cover tuition fees at the EU rate only. Non EU students will have to pay the remainder of their tuition fees up front before commencing their studies. Applicants are also eligible for a bursary of up to €18,000 for one year (equivalent) dependent upon qualifications and experience.

How to apply
Please complete the application form at http://www2.ul.ie/pdf/77359127.doc and return to Dr. Ann MacPhail, Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick. Do not return the application form to Postgraduate Applications. There is no need at this stage in the application procedure to include the materials requested in the box after question 10.
Under question 19 (iv) of the application are expected to portray their vision of the aims, objectives, research methodology and project description that would align with the project description given above.

Closing date is: Friday 5th March 2010.
Interviews will be held the week beginning 22nd March 2010.

 

 

PRESS RELEASE: IRISH SPORT UNITES TO PROTECT SPORTS FUNDING

IRISH SPORT UNITES TO PROTECT SPORTS FUNDING

All of Ireland’s Sports organisations join together to ensure that:

There are no further cuts in Irish Sports Council funding
Sport remains a separate Government Department
The Sport Capital Programme is reinstated
The National Sports Campus is developed

All of Irish sport has joined together in a campaign to highlight the importance of continued government funding of Irish sport. Sport in Ireland spoke with one voice as it delivered its submission to Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, Mr Martin Cullen, TD, earlier today, Wednesday, 21 October, 2009. Joining forces in the campaign are the Federation of Irish Sports, GAA, FAI, IRFU, the GUI, the Olympic Council of Ireland, the Paralympic Council and Special Olympics Ireland. The Federation represents the governing bodies of 65 sports.Outlining the reasons for the campaign Ms Sarah O’Connor, chief executive, Federation of Irish Sports, said that “In making this submission on behalf of everyone involved in Irish sport, we wish to emphasise the important role sport plays in Irish life, in improving public health, contributing to economic activity, driving tourism, building communities and projecting a positive image of brand “Ireland” at home and abroad.” “While we fully recognise today’s unprecedented economic conditions in Ireland it is our considered belief that Irish sport has already suffered a significant reduction in funding with the suspension of the Sports Capital Programme and a 11% reduction in 2009 of Irish Sports Council funding.

The McCarthy Report now recommends further cuts.” “We would stress that sport is not looking for additional funding but rather to protect existing and promised investment. This includes capital developments such as the proposed National Sports Campus at Abbotstown which has been granted full planning permission and which was intended to be a cornerstone of Ireland’s programme in relation to the 2012 London Olympics.”
“In order to protect the future funding of Irish sport, we are now calling on the government to ensure that:
There is no further reduction in the budget allocated to sport through the Irish Sports Council Sport
remains as a separate Government Department
The Sports Capital Programme is reinstated
The National Sports Campus is developed.

Speaking at the briefing Mr Paraic Duffy, Director General of the GAA, stressed that all of the sports bodies were agreed on what was required and that they would be taking their message to the millions of people who both participated and watched Irish sport every week. Sport, he said, “has a significant role to play in improving public health, contributing to the economy, building communities, driving tourism and establishing pride in Ireland both at home and abroad. Sport also has a remarkable power to make us feel good and that is hugely important in the current difficult times.
Every day across Ireland, thousands of people are involved in coaching, playing, volunteering and administrating sports. It is part of who we are and has a crucial role to play. We cannot underestimate the huge significance of sport in our lives. One cannot imagine Ireland as a country without sport
In the GAA alone Government funding has been vital to help put 75,000 primary school children through GAA development programmes in Dublin and to also run development programmes throughout our 2,610 clubs.” Mr John Delaney, CEO of the FAI, said that all present acknowledged the commitment of government to Irish sport over the past decade. “The funding both of capital projects, of sportsmen and women and of developmental programmes has been hugely important to all of our sports. It is not, however, a particularly large budget by comparison to other countries and to cut it back further at this point in time would have disastrous effects. We believe it could set Irish sport back many years.” “It is recognised worldwide that you cannot simply turn sports funding on and off. If funding dries up programmes disappear and we lose sportsmen and sportswomen with potential who may never come back into sport.” “We are all agreed that the Irish Sports Council has a made a major difference in the way it has not alone administered the funding but also in the way it has assisted in setting up key programmes countrywide. Indeed, the emphasis of the Irish Sports Council has been on building participation with every €1 spent on high performance sport being matched by a €3 spend on sports development. Their funds have already been cut. Their budget cannot and should not be cut further.”

Mr Philip Browne, CEO of the Irish Rugby Football Union, said it has been estimated that sport contributes at least a twelvefold return on the funding put in by government. It also contributes 1.7% of Ireland’s GDP. “Major sporting occasions contribute millions to the local economy and sustain many jobs across a range of industries. It has been well researched and documented that an Ireland v England rugby international contributes in excess of €80 million to the local Dublin economy.” “It is often overlooked that the funding the government puts into the Sports Capital Programme has a huge return. If we take the construction of the new Aviva Stadium, the government has contributed €191 million. During the construction period they will receive almost €150 million of that back in VAT and taxes. The total project, which is also being funded by the FAI and the IRFU, will represent an overall Government investment of just over €400 million.” “And that is only part of the impact felt in economic terms. Over the three year period since the project was begun, there has been up to 800 jobs created by the construction. When finished, the stadium has the potential to deliver up to 1,000 jobs on match days.” “Once we start holding other events, the stadium will become an income earner for the local Dublin economy, creating indirect jobs and also generating government revenue. Other indirect benefits come from the exposure that major events generate for Ireland.”
Mr Patrick Hickey, President of the OCI, said he was delighted that sport had united in the campaign. He said it was all too easy to bask in the glory of Irish sporting success without thinking of just what had gone into creating that success. He said that it was essential that the government continued to give full backing to Irish sport if we want to continue to be successful. He said that if investment in sport was curtailed at this point in time that not alone could Ireland virtually write off any chance of success at the 2012 London Olympics, the closest thing to a “home games” for Ireland but in all likelihood we could also forget about Rio in 2016.

The Programme Sarah O’Connor, CEO of the Federation of Irish Sports, said that the programme was backed by each and every sports governing body and that those NGBs would be asking their members to lobby their local TDs to help the campaign realise its aims. She also noted that following the briefing, copies of the submission would be sent to every TD in the country along with a fact sheet outlining the potential impact of funding cuts on sport in their local area. “We have also sought meetings with the Oireachtas Committee on Sport and it is out intention to request further meetings with the officials in the Department of Finance.”

She noted that copies of the complete submission to government could be accessed @ www.irishsport.ie.
In conclusion she asked the media to back the campaign. “Every day our sports media devote a huge amount of time and space to sport. They realise just how important a part sport plays in all our lives. We would hope that you will help us in our efforts to remind everyone of the significance of sport to Ireland.”

For further information, please contact:

Sarah O’Connor, FIS Tel: or Roddy Guiney, WHPR

01 625 1155 / 086 804 8446 Tel: 01 669 0030 / 087 2523 095

 

PRESS RELEASE - September 30th, 2009.

THURLES CROKES FIT4LIFE'S FUN CROSS COUNTRY EVENT A GREAT SUCCESS

Thurles Crokes Fit4Life group, jointly supported by North Tipperary Sports Partnership and Athletics Ireland are doing great work recruiting members to their Fit4Life meet n’ train programme. Thurles have always enjoyed a strong tradition of middle distance running, and capitalizing on this by using their own facilities and the knowledge of the Fit4Life leaders in the club they came up with a novel idea last Sunday - to hold a fun 5K Cross Country event especially targeted at the beginner who had never run cross country before.

Thurles Crokes own training grounds which boasts a great smooth surfaced field with natural undulations and turns was the venue last Sunday morning for the Open Cross Country 5k Fun Run. Held in great underfoot conditions, the event took place in summer like conditions, and made cross country very appealing to those new to running. Great credit must go the Thurles Crokes Club for having the venue in top class conditions and the 5k course was well marked out.

There was a great buzz around the venue on Sunday morning and with 46 athletes participating, the event was a great success, so much so that the organising committee hopes to hold another such event before Christmas and one after Christmas! Of the 46 entrants, 13 were participating in their first ever Cross Country event and there was a very positive reaction from all participants for more such events. It was great to see new participants from Moneygall, Rehealty, Nenagh, Templederry and Thurles to name just a few.

Newcomers are always welcome to join Thurles Crokes Fit4Life meet n train group, see local press for details or contact Madeline Loughnane in Thurles Crokes AC.

 

PRESS RELEASE - August 24th, 2009.

GRANTS FOR SPORT & PHYSICAL ACTIVITY FOR OLDER PEOPLE

One of the main elements of the Go for Life Programme is the National Grant Scheme for Sport and Physical Activity for Older People. Running since November 2001, each year we allocate money to local groups all over the country, who are seeking to provide increased opportunities for older people to participate in sport and physical activity.
In 2008, we had over 1,000 applications, with grants ranging from €450 to €3,000 going to 728 successful applicants. Typically, these grants were used by groups to purchase equipment or so that members may explore a new sporting activity.
The successful applicants included active retirement associations, senior citizens clubs, ICA guilds, sports clubs, Local Sports Partnerships, day centres and community centres in 26 counties.
The Grant Scheme is administered by the Steering Committee of Go for Life – the National Programme for Sport and Physical Activity for Older People. Developed by the Irish Sports Council and Age & Opportunity. In the past eight years, Go for Life has allocated over €2.5 million.
Speaking at the announcement of the grants allocation in December 2008, John Treacy, Chief Executive of the Irish Sports Council said: “We know that being physically active is probably the most important thing that any of us can do if we want to maintain our independence into older age. We are very keen to get the Go for Life message out so that more older people can benefit from the increasing opportunities to participate in all kinds of sport and physical activity.”

Application Forms for 2009 Grant Scheme are now available from Go for Life c/o Age & Opportunity Marino Institute of Education, Griffith Avenue, Dublin 9, email gfl@mie.ie. or can be downloaded from the Age and Opportunity website www.ageandopportunity.ie.

The closing date for completed application forms is 5pm on 30 September 2009.

 

PRESS RELEASE - August 2nd, 2009.

Ireland 8th at World Laser Radial Women's Championship in Japan
Ireland’s Annalise Murphy sails into 8th at World Laser Radial Women's Championship in Japan

At the World Laser Radial Women's Championship in Japan, Ireland's Annalise Murphy placed 8th overall following a 4th and 14th in the final two races.
The Championship was won by Finland's Sari Multala who counted 5 race wins in her scores, allowing her to sit out the final race.
Also competing for Ireland were Tiffany Brien and Claudine Murphy (Annalise's sister).
Brien placed 35th overall, her personal best, while Claudine Murphy was 14th in the Silver Fleet.
The 87 boats, from 30 nations, were split into Gold and Silver fleets following an initial qualification series of races. The Championship consisted of twelve races, which allowed competitors to discard their two worst results.
Following the event, ISA Performance Director James O'Callaghan commented: “This is a fantastic achievement; we always knew Annalise had the potential but she has even surprised by the speed in which she has delivered on it. Remember this is only her first year as a senior.” O'Callaghan continued: “Once again it is a clear demonstration of the ISA Performance Pathway programme working. It proves that the investment in athletes and coaching delivers results. ISA Development Coach Ian Clingan was recently appointed to coach the Laser Radial Girls currently competing on the Olympic circuit. Annalisa’s result is Ireland’s best in 5 years in Olympic class sailing. In 2003 David Burrows placed 3rd at the Finn World Championship. This is Annalise’s first senior year of competition on the Olympic circuit.

Gold Fleet - 44 boats
1st FIN Sari Multala
8th IRL Murphy Annalise
35th IRL Tiffany Brien

Silver Fleet - 43 boats
1st AUS Ashley Stoddart
14th IRL Claudine Murphy

 

PRESS RELEASE - July 22, 2009.

HONOURING THE UNSUNG HERO’S OF IRISH SPORT

Martin Cullen TD, Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, was joined by some of the biggest stars in Irish sport - Rob Kearney, Bernard Dunne, Katie Taylor, Derval O’Rourke and Jason Sherlock to launch the 2009 National Awards to Volunteers in Irish Sport.

The 2009 National Awards to Volunteers in Irish Sport is an initiative of the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism in conjunction with the Federation of Irish Sports which represents some 68 sports in Ireland. The scheme is being supported by Setanta Sports and the Irish Sports Council.

The Awards will honour eleven individuals who are representative of the 400,000 people who volunteer their time and effort to sport in Ireland each year through their involvement with sports clubs and organisations throughout the country. The first programme of National Awards to Volunteers in Sport was successfully held in 2007. The award winners will be selected by a committee chaired by Olympic gold medal winner, Dr Ronnie Delany and the Awards will be presented by the Minister in January 2010.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Cullen said: “Sport at every level in Ireland could not exist without the efforts of the many volunteers who give their time freely to encourage people to become involved in sport and nurture them through the important formative years of their sporting careers. In an age where time and community spirit are both valuable commodities, the commitment, generosity and contribution of these volunteers to our communities and society deserve recognition.”

Minister Cullen added: “The 2009 National Awards to Volunteers in Irish Sport aims to recognise those men and women who undoubtedly helped every successful Irish athlete take the first steps to what in many cases have become glittering careers. This is epitomised by the five sports stars that have joined me to launch the scheme.”

Also speaking at the launch of the scheme, Sarah O’Connor, Executive Director of the Federation of Irish Sports said: “Ireland has a proud history of volunteerism in sport at all levels and this should be recognised. I believe it is not overstating the case to say that none of today’s Irish sporting heroes and heroines who bring such honour to the country would ever have had the opportunity to fully develop if it were not for the volunteers in Irish sport. While we have many professional coaches and administrators at the highest level we should also remember the many volunteers who still give freely of their time at all levels of Irish sport to ensure we all have the opportunity to participate in sport.”

Nominations for the Awards can be made by individuals or clubs on-line at www.volunteersinsport.ie which includes full guidelines and details on the 2009 Awards.

 

PRESS RELEASE - June 12, 2009.

Are you a Sports Volunteer? – If so, please read on …

The Irish Sports Council has commissioned research to investigate the needs, capacities, and profile of the Irish volunteers working with children’s and youth sport and physical activity programmes. It is part of a larger study investigating the sport and physical activity patterns of children and youth. The aim of the study is to investigate how best to enhance the experience for all involved in sport and physical activity, including the volunteer.

The research team is eager to hear from volunteers and club administrators about the volunteer experience, examples of best practice, and barrier to recruiting and maintaining a volunteer workforce. This will be done through an online survey that will take no more than 15 minutes to complete. This is the first in-depth study in Ireland to focus on the volunteer experience. Those who participate in the study are entered into a prize draw. Administrators are placed in a draw to win a 3 day training camp for their club and the volunteers have the opportunity to win sports vouchers. Visit the web address below for more details on the prizes.

The online survey is located on the Irish Sports Council website
www.irishsportscouncil.ie
Further information is available from Tony Cunningham at the Irish Sports Council at 018608800.

Note: According to a 2005 ESRI/Irish Sports Council report, sport contributes more than €2 billion into the Irish economy every year. This includes volunteering, club membership, attendance at sports events, sports equipment and sports tourism. Volunteering alone contributes €267 million based on the labour input of the 400,000 sports volunteers making a very significant contribution to the Irish economy. Sport is dependent on these volunteers for the quantity and quality of sport experiences available to participants. The volunteer also gains benefits from participation, volunteerism contributes to the volunteers own engagement in physical activity, it provides an opportunity for volunteers to stay connected to their sport, it allows them to contribute to the community, work with young people, and to follow their passion. The benefits to volunteers and participants build social connection and capital within the community.

Volunteerism is the lifeblood of Irish Sport but there has been little research that has focused on the need of the Irish volunteer working with children and youth. Sports organizations are always looking for volunteers and how best to recruit and keep them in the programme. The findings from this research will assist in policy development aimed at developing programmes and resources to support volunteers and clubs.

PRESS RELEASE - April 2009

North Tipperary Sports Partnership Ltd. have organised

Child Welfare & Protection in Sport Training

North Tipperary Sports Partnership is please to announce further Child Welfare & Protection in Sport Basic Awareness training. The course is aimed at sports leaders, children’s officers, parents or anyone working with young people in sport. A central goal for all those involved in sport for young people is to provide a safe, positive and nurturing environment where children can develop and enhance their physical and social skills. Promoting a child-centred environment should go hand in hand with identifying and eliminating practices that impact negatively on safe and enjoyable participation in sport for young people.

The workshop will be delivered by Edel Hickey, Irish Sports Council tutor, on:

Monday 27th April, 2009
Templemore Arms Hotel, Templemore
6.00pm – 10.00pm

The training will enable Children’s Officers/Sports Leaders to:

• Implement best practice in protecting the welfare of participants
• Create a child-centred environment within the sports club
• List categories of abuse and some indicators associated with abuse
• Make an appropriate response to a disclosure
• Make a report to designated officer or appropriate Statutory Authorities

Prior registration with North Tipperary Sports Partnership is necessary. A nominal fee of €10 is required to secure your place. A Certificate of Attendance will be awarded on completion of the course. Please book early as places are limited on the workshop.

For further information contact Elaine Cullinan or Sharon Mc Loughney (tel: 067-43604, email: info@ntsp.ie).

 

 

PRESS RELEASE - March 2009

LEITRIM COUNTY COUNCIL

Post of Sports Partnership Co-Ordinator

3 Year Fixed Term Contract

QUALIFICATIONS

1. CHARACTER:

Candidates shall be of good character.

2. HEALTH:

Each candidate must be in a state of health such as would indicate a reasonable prospect of ability to render regular and efficient service.

3. EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, ETC.:

Candidates shall possess:-
• A relevant qualification – degree level or equivalent in Sports and Recreation, Community Development, Health Promotion or other relevant disciplines is desirable but not essential.
• Approximately 2 years relevant management experience
• A sound understanding of the sports development process
• Strong planning and organisational skills
• Research skills relevant to strategic sports development
• Experience of strategic planning and marketing desirable
• Excellent communication; interpersonal and leadership skills
• Experience of budgetary management and control
• Knowledge of local, regional and national sports structures
• Knowledge of physical activity promotion programmes and methods
• Experience of working with voluntary and/or statutory sectors
• Computer Literacy
• A current driving licence and access to private transport

Key Skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Proven organisational skills
• Good level of computer literacy

LEITRIM COUNTY COUNCIL

Post of Sports Partnership Co-Ordinator

3 Year Fixed Term Contract

PARTICULARS OF OFFICE

1. The office is wholetime, temporary and penionable. The appointment will be on a contract basis for a period of 3 years, subject to a probationary period of 12 months. Funding for the post will be provided by the Irish Sports Council.

The holder of the office shall not engage in any gainful occupation, other than as an officer of a local authority, to such an extent as to impair the performance of his or her duties as an officer of a local authority or in any occupation which might conflict with the interests of the local authority or which might be inconsistent with the discharge of his or her duties as a local authority officer.

(i) Persons who become pensionable officers of a local authority who are liable to pay the Class A rate of PRSI contribution will be required in respect of their superannuation to contribute to the local authority at the rate of 1.5% of their pensionable remuneration plus 3.5% of net pensionable remuneration (i.e. pensionable remuneration less twice the annual rate of social insurance old age contributory pension payable at the maximum rate to a person with no adult dependent or qualified children).

(ii) Persons who become pensionable officers of a local authority who are liable to pay the Class D rate of PRSI contribution will be required in respect of their superannuation to contribute to the local authority at the rate of 5% of their pensionable remuneration.

All persons who become pensionable officers of a local authority will be required in respect of the Local Government (Spouses and Children's Contributory Pension) Scheme to contribute to the local authority at the rate of 1.5% of their pensionable remuneration in accordance with the terms of the Scheme.

2. SALARY:

The salary shall be €50,000 per annum and national pay increases will apply.

3. DUTIES:

The primary function of the post-holder is to co-ordinate the activities of the partnership and the individual partners contributions to ensure the promotion and development of sport at local level. The post-holder is also responsible for the day-to-day operations of the partnership along with record management, financial control and staff supervision. The role will also include elements of strategic planning and marketing.

The Local Sports Partnership Co-ordinator will also act as the Secretary to the Local Sports Partnership

The duties of the person appointed will include:
• Development of a sports strategy for County Leitrim;
• Implemention of the policies and strategic objectives of Leitrim Local Sports Partnership in conjunction with the member agencies of the Partnership;
• Conducting consultation with sports providers in the county;
• Provision of assistance, support and guidance to sports clubs and community groups;
• Liaison with the Recreation & Amenity Departments in local authority;
• Strategically planning of the development of sport and physical activity at local level;
• Building on research carried out to date to identify sports development needs in the county and put appropriate monitoring systems in place;
• Enabling Leitrim Local Sports Partnership members to optimally contribute to the delivery of sport in Leitrim;
• Identification of and application for sources of funding to further the work of the Partnership;
• Management of the roll out of programmes as appropriate;
• Liaison with the Irish Sports Council, Governing Bodies of Sport and other key agencies to ensure that local strategies reflect national policy where appropriate;
• Undertaking a promotion campaign to increase awareness of sports opportunities for all in the county and to highlight the work of the Partnership;
• Acting as secretary to the Leitrim Local Sports Partnership;
• Undertaking any other duties as required by Leitrim LSP from time to time;

4. RETIREMENT AGE

Retirement age is determined in accordance with the Public Service Superannuation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 2004. Should the person appointed be deemed a “new entrant” in accordance with the Act, he /she will not be required to retire at age 65. In all other cases the person appointed will on reaching the age of 65, cease to hold office.

5. HOURS OF WORK:

The person appointed will be required to work 34.75 Hour Week. Duties at week-ends, at night, and on public holidays, as required, will be an integral part of the working week. Hours of attendance will, therefore, be variable. Overtime will not be paid.

6. HEADQUARTERS:

The successful candidate will be based at Leitrim County Council Headquarters but will be required to work on a countywide basis.

7. SHORT-LISTING / SELECTION

Candidates may be short-listed on the basis of information set out in their application forms. The candidates short-listed will be invited to attend for interview. A panel may be formed on the basis of such interview. The life of the panel will be not more than one year from the date it is formed.

Leitrim County Council will not be responsible for any expenses incurred by candidates in attending for interview.

8. RESIDENCE

Holders of the office shall reside in the district in which their duties are to be performed or within a reasonable distance thereof.

9. Holders of the office shall hold a full driving licence for Class B vehicles and may be requested to use their car in the course of their duties and if so, their insurance policy must cover such use.

10. The Local Authority shall require persons to whom an appointment is offered, to take up such appointment within a period of not more than one month and if they fail to take up the appointment within such period or such longer period as the Local Authority in its absolute discretion may determine, the Local Authority shall not appoint them.

Leitrim County Council is an equal opportunities employer.

 

PRESS RELEASE - March 2009

Get On Your Bike with An Post Cycle Series and Clare Sports Partnership Clare chosen as a base for the An Post Cycle Series

An Post has joined forces with the Irish Sports Council and Clare Sports Partnership to encourage communities around County Clare to get on their bikes. The An Post Cycle Series will take place on the 20th June ’09 in Ballyvaughan with the ‘Tour de Burren’. It is anticipated that this event will attract upwards on 800 participants to North Clare. This will be a much needed boost to the local economy. The tour is part of the An Post National Cycle Series in association with the Irish Sports Council. The Tour de Burren will involve three routes: the 10km Aillwee Cave Family Loop starting at 12.30pm; the 60km Corkscrew Hill Challenge starting at 11.00 am; and the 160km Burnin Burren! starting at 9.30am. The focus on each event is fun and participation. Leading up to the event there will be a series of training initiatives organised in order to encourage the beginner and improver to prepare for the Tour.

Highlighting the importance of the event John Sweeney, coordinator of Clare Sports Partnership said,” The investment by An Post and the Irish Sports Council is a great opportunity for the county to be showcased as a natural region for cycling. A wonderful collaboration has been formed with all our local partners including the Burren Cycling Club in order to ensure that this event will be a huge success. It is also a is a great opportunity for all age groups and abilities to get out cycling and set themselves an achievable challenge for this summer.”

Welcoming the event Pat Daly, Tourism Manager Shannon Development, the Shannon Region Tourism Authority said, “Congratulations to An Post, the Irish Sports Council and Clare Sports Partnership, for initiating this wonderful event which appeals to cyclists of all levels. This event complements our job of developing cycling hubs in Co. Clare and the Shannon Region, and we wish the organisers every success.”

Speaking at the national launch of the series, Donal Connell Chief Executive of An Post said, "The An Post Cycle Series offers whole communities around Ireland an opportunity to be part of the fun of a really inclusive day out, to experience close up the beauty of their locality and to rediscover the simple pleasure of getting back on their bikes. The Series promises to be a great way for family to spend a day of fun together, while the more serious rider can enjoy a more challenging route."

As part of the An Post Cycle Series four tours similar to Clare's Tour De Burren will take place in Sligo, Meath, Waterford and Cork between May and September this year. Aimed at recruiting as many people as possible to cycling each tour is being organised by the Local Sports Partnership in co-operation with their local partners within the county. There are routes to suit everyone from cycling enthusiasts to the serious rider with distances between 50k and 150k to choose from. Some Tours also offer a family cycle of 10km. 2009 will undoubtedly be a great year for cycling.

Further details on each of the Tour de Burren and other events in the Series, and how to become involved, please see www.burrencyclingclub.com and www.anpost.ie/cycling or email info@claresportspartnership.ie (065) 6865434

About the routes:

Aillwee Cave Family Loop
The 10 km Aillwee Cave Family Loop is all about fun, enjoyment and participation. The cycle will start from the Sea Front in Ballyvaughan at 12:30 and head out on a loop to Aillwee Cave. There will be a charge of 2 Euro for this cycle. This is to cover Insurance costs and all participants will have to register either by Post or on the day. Participants are only covered by insurance if they have registered and paid the 2 Euro Insurance fee.

Corkscrew Hill Challenge
The 60 Km Corkscrew Hill Challenge will start from the Sea Front in Ballyvaughan at 11am. The cyclists then go up Corkscrew hill and meet with the 160 Km cyclists at the Lisdoonvarna Food Stop where cyclists will have time to swap stories of the experience. There 60Km cycle then continues to Doolin, on to Ballinalacken, and home via Fanore and Black Head to Ballyvaughan. Registration is mandatory for insurance reasons and will be by Post or online. Charge for this event is 30 Euros.

Burnin Burren
The 160 km spin Burnin Burren spin starts at the Sea Front in Ballyvaughan at 9.30am sharp and takes cyclists out of Ballyvaughan on the Galway road, veering left at Bellharbour, up Ballaghtdine, up Corker Hill, and on through Carron Village. Taking a right turn at Sheisamor Cross, back towards Ballyvaughan, at the cross a left turn and on towards the Corkscrew Hill - a grade 2 King of the Mountains climb on the 2005 F.B.D Ras.
Next comes Lisdoonvarna, where there is a food stop in the new Pavilion Theatre. Cyclists then head for Kilfenora, on to Corofin, Ennistymon, Lahinch, Liscannor, up by Cliffs of Moher, another grade 2 King of the Mountains Hill. There is a welcome descent into Doolin, - food stop at Doolin Community Centre - then on to Ballinalacken, and home via Fanore and Black Head to Ballyvaughan. Registration is mandatory for Insurance reasons and will be by Post or On Line. Charge for this event is 30 Euros.

The Tour de Burren is organised and supported by:
Burren Cycling Club, Clare County Council, Clare Tourism Forum, Shannon Development, Aillwee Cave, Miko Russel Centre, North Clare Sports and Amenity Park, Rural Resource Development, Clare Sports Partnership

For further media information please contact:
John Sweeney – 087 9106613 / 065 6865434

PRESS RELEASE - March 2009

Irish Sports Council Publishes Study on the Flora Women’s Mini-Marathon

Waterford Institute of Technology investigated whether participating in the Mini-Marathon makes women more active and what strategies can be used to support them staying active.

The Flora Women’s Mini-Marathon is the largest event of its kind in the world. A research study published today by the Irish Sports Council investigated the physical activity behaviour of over 11,000 women who participated in the 2007 event, a unique opportunity to evaluate the impact of high profile events on long term engagement with sport.

The research found that women increased their activity levels in the build up to the Mini Marathon which then decreased over time after the event. The study identified a number of areas where women could be supported in their efforts to stay active.

‘Meet and Train’ groups were identified by two thirds of the participants as a way to support women who wish to get active for the mini-marathon and as a way to maintain activity levels after the event. The Council is committed to supporting the development of such groups as well as to help generate awareness for existing groups.
The report also highlighted the fact that the overwhelming majority of women took part to raise money for charity with over 280 charities being represented at the event. The Council will seek to engage with this sector as another potential avenue to provide support to women who wish to train for the event or simply join up with their local Meet and Train group. The Council intends to provide a pack to all charities represented in the mini-marathon with details of contacts for local Meet and Train groups and events, how to set up a group and training tips including nutritional information.

The majority of participants indicated that more local events would help to increase their activity levels. The mini-marathon is currently oversubscribed with half of all participants from Dublin. More local events would help alleviate this problem as well as providing activity opportunities for women outside the Dublin region. The Council will help to generate awareness of these events as well as support development of new and existing events through the Local Sports Partnership network.

The Council will work with the all interested parties involved in providing advice and resources to participants in the Mini Marathon to order to maximize the benefits of their participation in this hugely popular event.

For more information on the Flora Mini-Marathon study including contact information for local ‘Meet and Train’ groups, charity listings, training tips and links to entering this year’s event please visit www.irishsportscouncil.ie. For information on the Fit4Life programme, please visit www.athleticsireland.ie. For information regarding participating in the Mini Marathon or contacting a charity, please visit www.womensminimarathon.ie.

The report is titled “The impact of participation in the Flora women’s mini-marathon on physical activity behaviour in women”. It was written by Niamh Murphy and Aoife Lane of the Department of Health, Sport and Exercise Studies at the Waterford Institute of Technology and Professor Adrian Baumann at the University of Sydney, Australia. It was carried out as part of the Irish Sports Council’s research progamme and is available at www.irishsportscouncil.ie and www2.wit.ie

For further information regarding the research report, please contact:
Peter Smyth, Research Manager, Irish Sports Council 087-6846713
Tony Cunningham, Research Executive, Irish Sports Council 087-9922857
Niamh Murphy, Waterford Institute of Technology, 086-8317630

 

PRESS RELEASE - March 2009

Irish Amateur Archery Association Ltd
Cumann Boghdóireacht Amaitéireach na hÉireann Teo
Affiliated to: Olympic Council of Ireland & F.I.T.A. Irish Amateur Archery Ass. Ltd
Sports Headquarter, Unit 13,
Joyce Way, Park West Business Park,
Dublin 12.

The Irish Amateur Archery Association is pleased to announce the appointment of Vittorio Frangilli as Irish National Archery Coach. With a view to sending a full team to the 2012 London Olympic game’s the association decided to advertise on the Fita web site for a world class coach.

Vittorio who comes to us from Northern Italy is a renowned world class coach with extensive experience of training archers to World and Olympic standard. Vittorio will combine his team coaching work with mentoring our National tutors to raise the standards of coaching in Ireland. It is also envisaged there will be greater promotion of the schools programme. This has proved to be a resounding success for the association over the last few years, attracting a wide range of participants at junior level, and in particular female archers due to the women in sports programme.

Over the last twenty years Vittorio has coached his son Michele to win many world titles and records including the following.
Silver 2000 Sydney, Team,Bronze 1996 Atlanta Team, World Championships Gold 1999 Riom Team Gold 2003 New York City Individual Silver 1995 Jakarta Team Silver 2001 Beijing Team Bronze 2003 New York City Team European Championships Gold 1996 Boe' Team Gold 2002 Oulu Individual Silver 1996 Kranska Gora Team Bronze 2002 Oulu Team Bronze 2006 Athens Team
Current world record holder 25 meter 60 arrows, shot on 21 nov 2001(Gallarate,ITA): 300+298=598
Current world record holder 18 meter 60 arrows, shot on 13 jan 2001(Nîmes, FRA): 597
Current world record holder 36 arrow final round, shot on 3 March 2004(Caorle, ITA): 358

We would like to the opportunity to thank the Irish Sports Council and the Olympic Council of Ireland for their support.

Yours in Archery
Gerry Deegan
National Team Manager
Irish Amateur Archery Association
Mobile 087 2355180
Email Manager@Archery.ie

 

PRESS RELEASE - March 2009

North Tipperary Sports Partnership Ltd. have organised

Child Welfare & Protection in Sport Awareness Training

North Tipperary Sports Partnership is please to announce further Child Welfare & Protection in Sport Basic Awareness training. The course is aimed at sports leaders, children’s officers, parents or anyone working with young people in sport. A central goal for all those involved in sport for young people is to provide a safe, positive and nurturing environment where children can develop and enhance their physical and social skills. Promoting a child-centred environment should go hand in hand with identifying and eliminating practices that impact negatively on safe and enjoyable participation in sport for young people.

The workshop will be delivered by John Mc Elhinney, Irish Sports Council tutor, on:

Monday 23rd and Thursday 26th March, 2009
The Anner Hotel, Thurles
7.30pm – 9.30pm

 

PRESS RELEASE - March 2009

SPORTS FIRST AID COURSE

The North Tipperary Sports Partnership in conjunction with the Civil Defence is pleased to run a Sports First Aid training course. It aims to enable the learner to:

• Recognise certain life threatening injuries / conditions
• Acquire basic life support skills
• Provide assistance to casualties until more qualified medical aid arrives

Course Contents: Introduction to first aid, respiration & asphyxia, the cardiovascular system, casualty assessment, unconsciousness, shock, CPR, fractures & soft tissue injuries (sports injuries), burns & poisons.

The training will run over a 6 week period commencing on:
Thursday 23rd of April 2009
Civil Defence Training Room, Nenagh
8.00 PM – 10.00 PM .

Numbers are limited to a maximum of 12 participants and places will be allocated on a first to register basis, so early booking is advised. The normal cost of the cost of the course is €60 per person; the cost to residents of North Tipperary for this course is €45 per person (subsidised by North Tipperary Sports Partnership).

For further information or to register please contact Elaine Cullinan or Sharon McLoughney at the North Tipperary Sports Partnership office.Tel: 067-43604 Email: info@ntsp.ie.

 

PRESS RELEASE - March 2009

Calling all Coaches and Athletes…

Would you like to improve your Speed, Agility & Quickness in Sport,
or, would like to know how to coach others to improve theirs???

The North Tipperary Sports Partnership in association with SAQ Ireland is hosting a Speed, Agility and Quickness (SAQ) Foundation Level Course on Friday April 17th, 2009 from 4pm to 10pm at the VEC Secondary School in Nenagh.

SAQ is a system of training that enhances performance in all sports. It:
- improves acceleration, speed, fast arm action, footwork, response time and explosiveness;
- increases visual awareness, hand to eye co-ordination, and general manual dexterity;
- promotes control, energy utilisation and strength development.

For further information see the SAQ Ireland website (www.saqireland.net).

There are a limited number of places on this course, which will be offered on a first come first served basis. To secure a place, payment must be made to the North Tipperary Sports Partnership before Friday April 10th, 2009.

Fee: The cost to participants from North Tipperary is €45 (subsidised by NTSP). For all other participants the fee is €69.

For further details contact Elaine or Sharon in the North Tipperary Sports Partnership office, telephone 067-43604, email info@ntsp.ie. Details can also be found on our website: www.ntsp.ie.

 

PRESS RELEASE - Februrary 2009

North Tipperary Sports Partnership Ltd. have organised

Top Coaching Experts in Ireland Introduce New Course

Top coaching and fitness experts in Ireland Jim Kilty & Dr. Liam Hennessy, Setanta College have developed a new course to assist managers, trainers, coaches, teachers, players and athletes to develop their ability and competence to functionally screen players/athletes and thereafter to prescribe corrective exercises.

Following on from the successful Introductory Evening to Functional Screening in the Tipperary Institute, Thurles on Friday, 6th February 2009. North and SouthTipperary Sports Partnerships in conjunction with Setanta College will facilitate the first workshop in a series of workshops which will be held on Friday, 27th February 2009 in Tipperary Institute, Thurles from 5pm to 10pm. Applications are now being accepted for this workshop and early enrolment is advisable as places are limited.

There are 3 levels in the series of workshops and at each level coaches will attend a 5 hour workshop and follow up studying for 4 weeks on-line with a simple assessment to complete each step. The Functional Screening process is used to support the work of coaches from all sports and enhance the standard of participation, enhance performance and reduce the likelihood of injury of all players and athletes.

For further information, or to book a place, please contact the North Tipperary Sports Partnership Office 067-43604 or check out www.ntsp.ie

 

PRESS RELEASE - Februrary 2009

North Tipperary Sports Partnership Ltd. have organised

Child Welfare & Protection in Sport Awareness Training

North Tipperary Sports Partnership is please to announce further Child Welfare & Protection in Sport Basic Awareness training. The course is aimed at sports leaders, children’s officers, parents or anyone working with young people in sport. A central goal for all those involved in sport for young people is to provide a safe, positive and nurturing environment where children can develop and enhance their physical and social skills. Promoting a child-centred environment should go hand in hand with identifying and eliminating practices that impact negatively on safe and enjoyable participation in sport for young people.

The workshop will be delivered by John Mc Elhinney, Irish Sports Council tutor, on:

Monday 23rd and Thursday 26th February, 2009
Templemore Arms Hotel, Templemore
7.30pm – 9.30pm

The training will enable Children’s Officers/Sports Leaders to:

• Implement best practice in protecting the welfare of participants
• Create a child-centred environment within the sports club
• List categories of abuse and some indicators associated with abuse
• Make an appropriate response to a disclosure
• Make a report to designated officer or appropriate Statutory Authorities

Prior registration with North Tipperary Sports Partnership is necessary. A nominal fee of €10 is required to secure your place. A Certificate of Attendance will be awarded on completion of the course. Please book early as places are limited on the workshop.

For further information contact Elaine Cullinan or Sharon Mc Loughney (tel: 067-43604, email: info@ntsp.ie).

 

 

PRESS RELEASE - Februrary 2009

North Tipperary Sports Partnership Ltd. have organised

Volunteer Management (3 hrs training)

North Tipperary Sports Partnership will host a Volunteer Management training course. This course has been developed by Volunteering Ireland in conjunction with the FAI.
The course is intended to give clubs a more professional human resource type approach to managing, recruiting, supporting and retaining volunteers. The course is very practical, giving participant’s time to plan and develop future goals for volunteerism. It will be of more benefit to the club if a number of club members attend the course.
The training course will be delivered by Paul Martyn, Volunteer Education National Co-ordinator, FAI on:

Monday 9th March, 2009
Abbey Court Hotel, Nenagh
7.00pm – 10.00pm

The course will cover such areas as:

• Basics of Volunteering – Role Descriptions, Do’s and Don’ts
• The Recruitment Message
• Screening and Selection
• Support Mechanisms
• Policies and Procedures
• The Role of the Volunteer Co-ordinator

Prior registration with North Tipperary Sports Partnership is necessary. A nominal fee of €5 is required to secure. Please book early as places are limited on the workshop.

For further information contact Elaine Cullinan or Sharon Mc Loughney at the NTSP office (tel: 067-43604, email: info@ntsp.ie).

 

PRESS RELEASE - January 2009

North Tipperary Sports Partnership Ltd. have organised

Child Welfare & Protection in Sport Awareness Training

Monday 23rd January and Thursday 26th January, 2009
Abbey Court Hotel, Nenagh
7.30pm – 9.30pm

The course is aimed at Sports Leaders, Children’s Officers, Parents & anyone working with young people in sport.
A central goal for all those involved in sport for young people is to provide a safe, positive and nurturing environment where children can develop and enhance their physical and social skills. Promoting a child-centred environment should go hand in hand with identifying and eliminating practices that impact negatively on safe and enjoyable participation in sport for young people.

The training will enable Children’s Officers/Sports Leaders to:

• Implement best practice in protecting the welfare of participants
• Create a child-centred environment within the sports club
• List categories of abuse and some indicators associated with abuse
• Make an appropriate response to a disclosure
• Make a report to designated officer or appropriate Statutory Authorities

A nominal fee of €10 is required to secure your place on the workshop. Applicants must attend on both nights.
For more information, log onto www.ntsp.ie , contact Elaine Cullinan or Sharon Mc Loughney at the Sports Partnership office, 067 43604 or email: info@ntsp.ie

PRESS RELEASE - January, 2009

Coach Education Series in Functional Screening

North Tipperary Sports Partnership with Setanta College (Institute of Strength and Conditioning Studies) is please to host an Introductory workshop to Functional Screening for coaches in North Tipperary. The use of the Functional Screening (FS) process will support the work of coaches from all sports and enhance the standard of participation of all players and athletes. FS must become the first step in this development pathway as well as being a constant source of evaluation through the players/athletes career. The content of our series of courses will be used by coaches and teachers of all levels to develop functional competency, improved movement mechanics and greater all round fundamental sports skills.