The Ulster Unionist Party has tabled an amendment for debate in the Assembly on Monday calling on the Executive to support the establishment of a Northern Ireland Sports Museum to showcase our sporting heritage.
Alan Chambers, who is the Party’s Tourism Spokesperson, said:
“Northern Ireland has a rich and varied sporting heritage. For a population of 1.8 million people there is no question that we have produced a tremendous amount of successful individuals and teams.
“It is long past time that we had a Northern Ireland Sports Museum in which to celebrate our sporting achievements and this is why we have tabled an amendment for debate on Monday, calling on the Executive to support the establishment of a Northern Ireland Sports Museum to showcase our sporting heritage.
“This would not only be an attraction to local people, it would also be a real boost to Sports tourism which is an increasingly important sector.
“Football fans visiting Northern Ireland would undoubtedly queue up to see a tribute to legends of the game such as George Best. Golfers visiting to play on Courses such as Royal Portrush would obviously be interested to learn how a small country produced world beaters like Fred Daly, Rory McIlroy, Graeme McDowell and Darren Clarke. Visiting rugby fans would be able to learn more about Jack Kyle, Willie John McBride and Mike Gibson. Motorbike fans visiting to see the North West 200 and Ulster Grand Prix would be able to learn more about the legend that was Joey Dunlop and the many others who have achieved fame and success on two wheels.
“We have also enjoyed Olympic success with Mary Peters and many others, and have long punched above our weight in terms of Boxing. That is barely scratching the surface because when one thinks of the many other sports in which local people have enjoyed success, including Gaelic games, it is clear that we have a real story to tell as to what can be achieved with skill, talent and dedication.
“We look forward to Monday’s debate and trust that our Amendment commands support across the House.”