I have been made aware of many excellent initiatives around the country including one that was recently launched in County Roscommon, a partnership between Connaught Rugby, Creggs RFC and Roscommon County Council with the co-funding of a Club Community Rugby officer which will enhance the development of Rugby in Roscommon. Michael Glennon, Club Community Rugby Officer is visiting schools, communities and individuals to increase the profile and impact of the game at a local level and making it accessible to all.
The initiative has been rolled out in a number of schools including my local primary school, Fuerty N.S. where both boys and girls are getting to experience and enjoy Rugby, some are trying it out for the first time. There is a very successful and active Rugby Club nearby in Creggs.
Recently there was a Rugby Blitz on the playing pitches in the grounds of Donamon Castle with boys and girls from local primary schools playing against each other. I want to recognise the work of volunteer coaches up and down the country that have been fostering the participation of boys and girls in sport, including in the sport of Rugby. I realise that we need to support the participation of children and young people in all sports and activities in the interest of their health and well being.
I have also been made aware by several people of the recent decision by The IRFU to downgrade the position of Ireland Women's team head coach to a 6-month-contract on a part-time, casual basis. I fully support all players and this week, players both male and female across Ireland and the UK are wearing wristbands that read 'LEGACY', calling into question the legacy the IRFU want to leave women's rugby with, just after hosting the World Cup.
I fully support the legacy campaign.#legacy