No evidence NI will benefit from Olympics

The Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure has admitted it has no firm evidence of any benefit to Northern Ireland from London winning the 2012 Olympic bid, despite claims to that effect by Ministers.

It was also unable to produce any confirmation of public support for the bid, contrary to claims being made by government representatives. There has been no systematic public opinion poll on the subject; the only quantitative evidence DCAL produced is that 600 people signed up to support the London bid at the Belfast International Horse Show.

Government was anxious to suggest that Northern Ireland supported London's effort to stage the games as regional support for the bid would attract 15% of the points in the judging.

Boost to sport

Former sports minister, Angela Smith, claimed earlier this year that Northern Ireland would enjoy a boost to sport, improved health and benefits to the economy if London were chosen to host the 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games.

She said it would excite and inspire peopleof all ages and sporting abilities and lead to increased participation in sport. It would also bring economic benefits to Northern Ireland before, during and after the games. "There are unprecedented opportunities for local businesses," she told the audience.

NI could also make a case for 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."

Current sports minister David Hanson also suggested late in June that people in Northern Ireland supported the London effort and that it would bring economic benefits if successful.

"Northern Ireland recognised at an early stage what a successful bid would mean, not only to the nation as a whole, but also to the Province. We must keep this momentum going and help ensure that London lands this prize."

Economic benefits

He added that the economic benefits it would bring to Northern Ireland had already been well documented in terms of attracting competitors, coaches, administrators, friends and supporters as well as offering unprecedented openings for local businesses.

But in response to an enquiry from SCOPE last week, the Department admitted that there was no such documented evidence. "To date, no formal assessments have been carried out on the benefits to Northern Ireland if London wins the 2012 Olympic bid," it said.

"However, it is expected that Northern Ireland could benefit through volunteering, hosting of pre-games training camps, increase in tourism, increased awareness of the benefits of participating in sport, economic and business procurement opportunities. It is also anticipated that competitors from Northern Ireland will compete in the games which will bring added value in support to local elite athletes."

Opportunities conference

In a background note, DCAL said the Department for Enterprise Trade and Investment had identified 19 companies who have the potential to tender for a range of services. There was an 'opportunities' conference in Belfast in January and a series of roadshows throughout Northern Ireland.

It did not refer to any costs if London wins the Olympics, notably the loss of Lottery funding as money is channelled into subsidising the games. It has been estimated that in the UK as a whole this could divert £64 million per year for seven years from other good causes. Northern Ireland's loss would be just under £18 million between now and 2012.

Other attempts to assess the support for the bid by Northern Ireland people came to nought. The official London 2012 campaign claims three million people have registered their support but a spokesperson told SCOPE they had 'no idea' how many came from Northern Ireland.

For more information

SCOPE social policy magazine

What's your view?

Are you enjoying the moment, discovering your Olympic spirit, or has the win got you incensed about higher taxes and diverted Lottery funds? We'd like to know. Use the comments box below to give your opinion.