Mr Foley also noted various items of work being progressed by Sport Ireland with regard to the strengthening of the network of Local Sports Partnership across the country. He noted in particular the upcoming launch of the “Ambition Statement for the Local Sports Partnership Network”; and a range of European funding opportunities coming on-stream in the coming months.

At the AGM, Cllr Robert McDermott, a former President of Leinster Rugby, was re-elected as Chair of Offaly Sports Partnership for the coming year. Cllr Mc Dermott acknowledged the vast amount of work that goes on across the county. He also indicated that he is looking forward to continuing to lead the organisation in the coming year. Other officers elected include: -
•    Jude Feehan, Vice Chair
•    Joe Meegan, Financial Monitor
•    Sean Campbell, External Sports Representative to the Executive Committee
•    Lourda Giles, Offaly County Council Representative to the Executive Committee 

The meeting noted the contents of the Annual Report 2022; and once again took a moment to reflect on the death of Ashling Murphy who was killed whilst out participating in physical activity in January 2022. 

The meeting also noted Offaly Sports Partnership’s ongoing compliance with Sport Ireland Governance Code for Sporting Organisations; and acknowledged the success of Offaly sporting stars on the national and international stage.

In the coming month, the Sports Partnership will be launching a club development grant scheme for sports clubs based in Offaly who are affiliated to a National Governing Body of Sport recognised by Sport Ireland. This year’s scheme will also be open for applications from local community organisations whose function(s) includes the delivery of sport and / or physical activity programmes for the benefit of the wider community.