A NEW five-year sport project has been launched in Dun Laoghaire to encourage more people to get fit.
The Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Sports Participation Strategy 2013-17 was launched by cathaoirleach, Cllr Carrie Smyth with the core objective of getting more people more active more often.
Organised by Dún LaoÂghaire Rathdown Sports Partnership, the launch in Fitzpatrick’s Castle Hotel was attended by a range of TDs, local councillors, partner agencies and sports club volunteers.
The five-year plan will focus on using all available resources to increase participation in physical activity and sport in the county.
While catering for all ages, abilities and backgrounds, there will be a focus on certain groups that have a proportionally lower level of participation.
Speaking at the event, Cllr Smyth explained that the new strategy was the culmination of months of consultation with local agencies, sports clubs and service users.
“The support and development of sport is a key element that contributes to the quality of life for those who live in, work in and visit the county,
? she said.
On the night certificates were presented to the 11 participants that completed the Sports Volunteer Development Programme.
A joint initiative of the UCD Athletic Union Council, Dún Laoghaire Rathdown Sports Partnership and the UCD Centre for Sports Studies, its main objective is to equip volunteers with the necessary skills to effectively contribute to the management and development of sports clubs through seminars and workshops.
Derek McArdle, the chair of Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Sports Partnership, said they would strive to find innovative and creative approaches aimed at increasing participation in the county, and ensure a successful delivery of the five-year strategy.
To download a copy of the County Sports Participation Strategy or for more information visit the website www.dlrsportspartnership.ie or tel 01-2719502.