Seventeen groups countywide will share in excess of EUR9,600 under the Seventh National Grant Scheme For Sport And Physical Activity For Older People, writes Elaine Ryan.The scheme aims to help local clubs and organisations to increase opportunities for their older members to actively participate in recreational sport and a range of physical activities Welcoming the allocation, Minister of State and Clare T.D. Mr. Tony Killeen (left) said that it highlighted the importance of the Government's investment in sports participation for older people.
“With older people making up an ever-increasing proportion of the population, it is very appropriate that there should be a programme of activities specifically targeting this group”, explained Minister Killeen. He continued, “Age is no barrier when it comes to taking part in sport or other physical activity. The benefits of sport for older people are wide-ranging, not least in providing an enjoyable, social and healthy activity. The Scheme's popularity proves its value to older people and indicates its potential for making a real and positive impact on people's lives."
The Clare groups and organisations in receipt of funding this year include Kilrush Active Retirement Association (ARA), Whitegate ARA, Bridgetown ICA, Gortlomain ICA Guild, Ennis ARA, Cranny ICA, Mullagh ICA (EUR500), Doora ICA, Clarecastle Daycare Centre Ltd (EUR525), East Clare Community Support 60+ Group, Kilrush Family Resource Centre (EUR550), Killimer Knockerra Social Group, Obair Going Strong Club, Stella Maris Day Care Centre (EUR575), Kilmaley Voluntary Housing Association, Kilnamona & Inagh ARA (EUR600) and Clare Sports Partnership (EUR1100).
The funding allocation coincides with the launch of a report, by Go for Life and the Irish Sports Council, in which 1000 people over 50 years of age were asked about their participation in and attitudes to sport and physical activity. The report found that 39% of older people participate in sport and recreational physical activity regularly but that only 15% are doing enough to maintain and improve their health.
