Ahead of the opening of the 2016 Paralympics, Kenneth Gibson MSP has highlighted figures that show an increase in funding for para-sports in Scotland.
Investment into Scottish Disability Sport has risen from £250,750 in 2007/08 to £653,600 this year. A total of £5,182,500 has been invested in Scottish Disability Sport since the SNP came to office in 2007/2008.
The investment shows the SNP’s commitment to investing in para-sports, enabling more people to take part in sporting activity and giving people the chance to develop skills that allow them to excel at their sport. Commenting, Kenneth Gibson said:
“These figures show the solid progress that has been made by the SNP Government in the funding of para-sports. An increase of 160% since we were elected in 2007 shows our commitment to ensuring everyone has equal opportunities to participate in sports. “In addition to the direct investment into Scottish Disability Sport, funding also backs disability and integration through sport, providing over 50 Paralympic and Commonwealth Games para-athletes with specialist support and expertise. In addition, £12 million is being invested into the re-development of the sportscotland National Centre Inverclyde in Largs which will become the UK’s first fully-inclusive residential facility and provide more opportunities for hosting national and international sporting events, particularly in para-sport. “Millions of people across the world will watch the Paralympics in Rio starting this week, with some of the most talented and inspiring athletes on the planet competing. It is heartening that the SNP Government is investing money to help make sure that all of our potential athletes of the future have the very best opportunities to participate and excel in the sports that they love.” ENDS
