London Games would benefit Northern Ireland

Angela Smith, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, was speaking at Belfast conference organised to highlight the opportunities for Northern Ireland if London wins the 2012 Games.

The Minister said that the 2012 Games provided a 'once-in-a-lifetime opportunity' and urged delegates to 'seize it with both hands'.

"Staging what has often been described as the greatest show on earth on our own doorstep would be a boost to sport at all levels," she said.

"It would excite and inspire people of all ages and sporting abilities, particularly our young people, and would lead to increased participation in sport."

"I believe that staging the Games in the UK would be catalyst for chance and an opportunity to motivate people to get more involved in physical activity in the run-up to 2012."

Ms Smith also highlighted the economic benefits to Northern Ireland, which would be felt before, during and after the Games.

"There are unprecedented opportunities for local businesses," she told the audience.

"Northern Ireland's airports are within a relatively short flying time from London and this close proximity would enable us to make the case for providing preparation camps.

"Such an influx of visitors would lead to an increased call on the services of our catering and hospitality industries, as well as on manufacturers and the construction industry.

"I am in no doubt that the potential benefits would permeate throughout Northern Ireland society."

The Minister also welcomed the London bid's emphasis on the cultural dimension of the 2012 Games.

"We have all recognised the contribution sport can make to promoting understanding and co-operation by breaking down barriers and celebrating diversity.

"Each region will have an input into the proposed Cultural Olympiad programme and the rich diversity to be found in Northern Ireland will add richness to such a showcase."

More than 300 delegates from the sport, business, tourism and cultural sectors attended the conference, which was organised by the Department for Culture, Arts and Leisure.

Former Olympians Dame Mary Peters and Dr Stephen Martin joined Paralympian Patsy Bell to share their experiences of competing in the Games with the audience.

27 January 2005