The Ulster Unionist Party today called for the Culture, Arts and Leisure Minister to ensure that sectarianism is eradicated within boxing in Northern Ireland.
Culture, Arts & Leisure spokesperson, Robin Swann MLA said:
“Recent news on the development of a Boxing Strategy which will see the allocation of funding for new equipment for clubs provides a much needed boost for the boxing community in Northern Ireland. Local boxing has suffered from very poor infrastructure and many clubs are struggling to continue with their current facilities.’
“It is vital, given the recent concerns raised by boxing clubs such as Sandy Row, that the funding is allocated equally across boxing clubs from both Protestant and Catholic areas. The Minister must work to eradicate the sectarianism which has sadly crept into the sport.’
South Belfast MLA, Michael McGimpsey said:
“It is very important that we reflect on the importance of sport. It is something we use to promote community development and inclusion. In isolation, boxing has played an important role in promoting inclusion in Northern Ireland through the decades.’
“However, there has sadly been an element of sectarianism in the sport, and when I look at Sandy Row Boxing Club in my own constituency I see the discrimination and bigotry that they have faced over the years. Sandy Row have found the Irish Amateur Boxing Association to be a cold house for Protestants. There is an urgent obligation on the Culture, Arts & Leisure Minister, along with her Department, to address this issue immediately’