Minister Ring Launches Ireland's Participation In The European Week Of Sport

Minister of State for Tourism and Sport Michael Ring TD, today launched Ireland's participation in the inaugural European Week of Sport.

Over two hundred and fifty sport and physical activity events will take place across Ireland from 7th - 13th of September.

The Irish Sports Council is the national co-ordinator for the European Week of Sport in Ireland which aims to promote sport and physical activity across Europe.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Michael Ring commented: "The European Week of Sport provides an excellent opportunity to promote all forms of sport and physical activity. The week is for everyone to get involved regardless of age, background or fitness level and I would encourage everyone to get active, because simple steps make an enormous impact in improving both physical and mental health".

Kieran Mulvey, Chairperson of the Irish Sports Council commented: "The Irish Sports Council are delighted to lead the European Week of Sport initiative. We have made increasing participation in sport and physical activity a key strategic priority and are determined to continue Ireland's growth in sports participation with almost 1.7 million Irish adults currently participating in sport regularly".

One of the flagship events for the European Week of Sport in Ireland will be the Great Dublin Bike Ride (GDBR). The cycle is open to participants of all abilities, from novice to expert with a 60km and 100km route available, taking place on Sunday 13th September 2015. Other flagship events taking place across Ireland include, Free Outdoor Adventure Days, All-Ireland Camogie Championships Final, All-Ireland Ladies Football Final, An Post Rebel Tour of Cork, Parkrun events and the Tipperary Mini Marathon.

Chief Executive of the Irish Sports Council, John Treacy said: "The European Week of Sport will be celebrated in 31 countries across Europe and Ireland has the largest number of events registered with over 250 sport and physical activity events taking place nationwide. I would like to acknowledge the large number of sport, health and education agencies in Ireland including Healthy Ireland, National Governing Bodies of Sport, Local Sports Partnerships, Outdoor Education Ireland, Parkrun and Ireland Active for their support and contribution."

A full listing of events scheduled for the European week of Sport is available on the Irish Sports Council website http://www.irishsportscouncil.ie/Week-of-Sport/ and everyone is encouraged and invited to get involved and participate in their local events.