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27/01/2005
Minister reiterates support for London Olympic bid
A successful London bid to host the 2012 Olympic Games would bring a once in a lifetime opportunity to Northern Ireland that must be seized with both hands.
This is according to Sports Minister, Angela Smith who was speaking in Belfast today where she opened the ‘Opportunities Conference’, which focused on the opportunities for Northern Ireland if London won the bid.
Addressing around 300 delegates, including representatives from the sport, business, tourism and cultural sectors in the Province, Ms Smith said: “Staging what has often been described as the greatest show on earth on our own doorstep would be a boost to sport at all levels. It would excite and inspire people of all ages and sporting abilities, particularly our young people, and would lead to increased participation in sport.”
The Minister also stressed that the Games would bring more than just a golden opportunity for sport and an incentive to follow a healthier lifestyle, it would also have huge potential for the economy.
“There are unprecedented opportunities for local businesses,” she continued. “Northern Ireland’s airports are within a relatively short flying time from London and this close proximity would enable us to make the case for providing preparation camps. We have already hosted world-class events and proved that we can welcome people from different cultures and nations.
Ms Smith also welcomed the emphasis the International Olympic Committee is placing on an educational and cultural dimension to the Games.
“Each region will have an input into the proposed Cultural Olympiad programme and the rich diversity to be found in Northern Ireland will add richness to such a showcase,” she concluded.
(MB/SP)
This is according to Sports Minister, Angela Smith who was speaking in Belfast today where she opened the ‘Opportunities Conference’, which focused on the opportunities for Northern Ireland if London won the bid.
Addressing around 300 delegates, including representatives from the sport, business, tourism and cultural sectors in the Province, Ms Smith said: “Staging what has often been described as the greatest show on earth on our own doorstep would be a boost to sport at all levels. It would excite and inspire people of all ages and sporting abilities, particularly our young people, and would lead to increased participation in sport.”
The Minister also stressed that the Games would bring more than just a golden opportunity for sport and an incentive to follow a healthier lifestyle, it would also have huge potential for the economy.
“There are unprecedented opportunities for local businesses,” she continued. “Northern Ireland’s airports are within a relatively short flying time from London and this close proximity would enable us to make the case for providing preparation camps. We have already hosted world-class events and proved that we can welcome people from different cultures and nations.
Ms Smith also welcomed the emphasis the International Olympic Committee is placing on an educational and cultural dimension to the Games.
“Each region will have an input into the proposed Cultural Olympiad programme and the rich diversity to be found in Northern Ireland will add richness to such a showcase,” she concluded.
(MB/SP)
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Northern Ireland stands to make huge financial gains if London is successful in its bid to stage the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics, according to Sports Minister, Angela Smith. Ms Smith made her statement at Parliament Buildings this morning to mark Sebastien Coe's one-day visit to the province to outline the bid process.
Lord Coe enlists NI support for London's Olympic bid
Northern Ireland stands to make huge financial gains if London is successful in its bid to stage the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics, according to Sports Minister, Angela Smith. Ms Smith made her statement at Parliament Buildings this morning to mark Sebastien Coe's one-day visit to the province to outline the bid process.
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14 October 2005
Sports Ministers discuss Olympic Games benefits
The Sports Ministers from either side of the border have met in Dublin to discuss the potential benefits of the 2012 Olympic Games which are being held in London. David Hanson and Irish counterpart John O'Donoghue agreed there were tremendous opportunities for both Northern Ireland and the Republic to benefit from the London Games.
Sports Ministers discuss Olympic Games benefits
The Sports Ministers from either side of the border have met in Dublin to discuss the potential benefits of the 2012 Olympic Games which are being held in London. David Hanson and Irish counterpart John O'Donoghue agreed there were tremendous opportunities for both Northern Ireland and the Republic to benefit from the London Games.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
