Minister Praises Schools Programme

Education Minister Caitríona Ruane has praised Ulster GAA and the IFA for their ongoing coaching within schools across the north, as part of her ‘Sport in Schools Programme’.

Earlier today Minister Ruane visited a cross-community event jointly organised by Ulster GAA and IFA coaches in Queens Physical Educational Centre.  The multi skills day was designed for Primary 4 children drawn from schools in the south and east areas of Belfast.

Speaking after the event Ulster GAA Provincial Secretary Danny Murphy said, “This is a wonderful event which really emphasises the enjoyment children get out of participating in sport, and the benefits that participation has on their health, both body and mind.

“Ulster GAA is proud to be part of the Minister’s Sport in Schools Programme and we hope that this programme will continue to be rolled out across all schools in the north, so that all children can get the opportunity to develop their skills and interest in the game.”

Mr Murphy concluded, “It is commendable that 15 GCSE pupils from Ashfield Boys School and St Joseph’s College have volunteered to help out at today’s event and I believe this shows that sport inspires our young people to do good work, both for themselves and their communities.”

Director of Coaching and Games Development Eugene Young said, “I commend Ulster GAA and IFA coaches who organised this worthwhile event.  The Sport in Schools Programme is vital for the development of children in terms of their physical literacy skills.  The feedback we are receiving from schools, parents and children, is extremely positive, with more and more children getting activity, both in and outside their school life.

“It is very important that children are encouraged from a young age to participate in sport, especially for their health and wellbeing, but sport also helps to breakdown boundaries and helps children to socialise.  For instance, this event is cross community and through sport these children are learning from each other and about each other’s backgrounds.  The values of equality, fair play and respect are foremost within this programme and that is quite evident today.”

Minister Ruane said: “Training exercises based on lifelong sports, like Gaelic games and soccer, are excellent ways in which to achieve improved physical literacy and develop fundamental skills. I would like to thank both the GAA and IFA for their support and hard work in helping deliver a range of fun and interesting activities to so many local young people.

“Schools have an important role to play in encouraging healthy lifestyles in our young people. By engaging in sports and other physical activity, children can combat and prevent obesity whilst improving their overall health and wellbeing.”