Report of the Joint Committee on Tourism, Culture, Arts, Sport and Media: Motion
Seanad Éireann — 2026-09-24
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Mark Duffy (FG), Labour Panel

I welcome the Minister of State to the House and thank him for being here for this important topic. I thank Senators Ní Chuilinn and Harmon for leading this Private Members' motion.
The more inclusive we make sport, the better it is for society, for community, for mental health, and for each and every one of us. From my point of view and my experience as a public representative, I have seen the power of sport and how it can bring people together and unite communities, families and people from different backgrounds, and while we have come some way, we have a long way to go.
Investment in capital infrastructure to help those less able who require specialised facilities to participate in sport is an important issue that needs attention and consideration, specifically proper changing facilities. These offer incredible dignity to children who are wheelchair users and their families, and to any person who is a wheelchair user. I single out a football club in Mayo that has the only changing facilities in the county so far, Manulla FC. They have done brilliant work in making their football club and using the grounds and the assets they have benefit all of their community. They have autism-friendly initiatives, they have a "Cubbie" sensory space but, practically and most importantly, they have a changing places unit. I have met many parents of children and young people who are wheelchair users and the changing places offers them life-changing opportunities in being able to have dignity while enjoying activity and sport in their local community.
There is a map of changing places facilities across the UK. The map of changing places facilities we have in Ireland is embarrassing in certain parts. Across all Government Departments, there should be some initiative to try to realise them and do more to incentivise community groups because it is such a vital thing.
When it comes to women in sport, great strides have been made in certain ways. However, increased emphasis is needed to support women in sport. The work of both Senators who have brought forward this motion needs to be supported by us all.
There is also the multigenerational approach to sport. Sport is not just for one age demographic. Walking football, for example, has become more popular recently. It engages a less active community and helps them to maintain a level of activity. Padel is also becoming a multigenerational sport. It is popping up in every town and village. Such initiatives, which are accessible and inclusive for all ages and abilities, are powerful. As I said at the outset, they can lead to a marked improvement in our physical and mental health, community-building and the development and growth of friendships.
I compliment the work of the Government and multiple Departments. We can always continue to do more. An emphasis on changing places facilities for those who are most vulnerable and most in need of help and dignity can be powerful in ensuring we are inclusive for all abilities and ages.

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Record URI: https://data.oireachtas.ie/akn/ie/debateRecord/seanad/2026-09-24/debate/main
Retrieved: 2026-09-28T05:50:50+00:00
Sitting date: 2026-09-24