2019 Local Sports Partnerships Annual Report Published
Sport Ireland today published the 13th annual Sport Ireland Local Sports Partnerships Annual Report on the national network of Local Sports Partnerships (LSPs).
The report outlines the work of the 29 LSPs across the country and highlights innovative programmes and initiatives that are operated locally.
Working with trusted professionals and valued volunteers, the LSP network engages communities across the country to deliver inclusive, impactful and sustainable opportunities. These opportunities are tailored to local needs and aim to get people more physically active, involved in sport and improve the mental and physical health of the nation.
Over €22 million was invested in the network of Local Sports Partnerships by Sport Ireland, Local Authorities and partner organisations in 2019 with over half a million people across communities in Ireland taking part in LSP sport and physical activity opportunities.
Speaking at the launch of the LSP Annual Report, Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, Brendan Griffin TD said: "It is clear from the figures in the Annual Report that the Local Sports Partnership network has a positive impact in communities, especially for target groups who are often less represented. The Government’s new Covid 19 funding support package will ensure the survival of our vibrant sport sector, particularly the many clubs in local communities throughout the country.
It is heartening to see that so many people have recognised the importance of staying active during the crisis. It is important to thank everyone involved in the LSP network for keeping programmes going. We must now seize the opportunity to secure a lasting improvement in the health and wellbeing of our nation by encouraging people to stay involved in sport.
I want to acknowledge the contribution of sports volunteers, not just for everything they have done during this public health crisis but for what they do all year round. We will continue to support their growth and provide every opportunity to sustain their ongoing involvement.”
the Local Sports Partnership network has a positive impact in communities, especially for target groups who are often less represented.
Chief Executive of Sport Ireland, John Treacy, said: “The Sport Ireland Statement of Strategy 2018-2022 highlights the “significant potential contribution that sport can make to enhance quality of life, and tackle many societal and environmental challenges” and the LSP network has placed themselves at the forefront of this journey towards lifelong and inclusive sport for all.
Funding received in 2019 ensured the nationwide rollout of Community Sports Development Officer and Sports Inclusion Disability Officer positions in each of the 29 LSPs. These roles have helped to increase the presence of Local Sports Partnerships within communities and allows for the continued development of sustainable programmes at a local level.
I would like to thank all the agencies, groups and individuals who have contributed to this report and also to all the staff and volunteers who were involved in the delivery of the programmes and projects at local level”.
Sport Ireland Director of Participation and Ethics, Dr. Una May, added: “The Local Sports Partnership Annual Report highlights increased participation numbers across every age group and from all social backgrounds throughout Ireland. It is heartening to see the number of females who took part in local women in sport initiatives as well as the number of people with a disability who took part in LSP initiatives. Removing the barriers to sport and physical activity is a key aim of Sport Ireland and the LSP Network and the figures announced in the Annual Report show great progress towards this”.