McKevitt calls on parties to commit to Commonwealth Youth Games
SDLP Culture Arts and Leisure Spokesperson Karen McKevitt MLA has called on the Executive and the Assembly to rise above current the political impasse and support Northern Ireland’s bid for the 2021 Commonwealth Youth Games.
Speaking in the Assembly Chamber McKevitt said, “Over the past month Northern Ireland’s athletes have shown once again their sporting ability on the international stage.
“Last year I extended my warmest, sincere congratulations to the Northern Ireland Commonwealth Team at their success in Glasgow while at the same time calling for this Assembly to fully support efforts to replicate this success in the future.
“The estimated £3.75 Million cost to host the games may be daunting but with proper planning and a positive joint approach to development I believe this represents an investment worth making.
She continued, “It is essential that the North has the facilities and infrastructure in place, not only for the Commonwealth Youth Games but to ensure that we can make a bid sporting events in the future and to ensure all our natural talents are nurtured in suitable environment.
“Regardless of the politics of the Commonwealth, the Commonwealth Youth games are a prestigious and international event and one which allows Northern Ireland Athletes to shine. As athletes and competitors they should be given every opportunity to compete and there would be no better place than a local one.
“It is the unifying power of sport that will allow all traditions and communities to come together to cheer and celebrate our athletes, as we have done in the past. In the spirit of this unifying power, I ask that this Assembly joins together once again to voice its support for Northern Ireland’s bid for the Commonwealth Youth games 2021.
The local MLA added, “Regardless of our current political circumstances, sport remains a positive force for Northern Ireland and reflects NI at its best. I hope in 2021 this chamber will be welcoming even greater successes of our Young Athletes.”
Short URL: https://newrytimes.com/?p=52979