During the Progressive Labor Party’s reply to the Throne Speech which was delivered in the House of Assembly by Opposition Leader Marc Bean made these comments regarding Sports.
Bean stated “The next PLP Government will invest in our Sporting and Workmen Club's infrastructure.
The next PLP Government will extend the Sports Academy concept to include a comprehensive Arts Academy.
The next PLP Government will fully commit to the funding and expansion of the Mirrors Program.
Mr. Speaker, Given the noted decline in performance and results in some sports, and the successes of others, it is the PLP’s view that the time is right for the creation of a Sports Academy. Here, notable and experienced sportsmen and women, combined with a first-class educational component, will work in tandem to improve our sports development and build a strong, wellrounded athlete on and off the 'field' of play. This Academy will be for athletes who have been identified at the school competition level of our reformed educational system as having the talent and discipline to excel on the international stage. Likewise, and as a part of our reformed education system, the next PLP Government will extend the Academy concept to include a comprehensive Arts Academy whose purpose is similar to that of sports. Mr. Speaker, Of necessity, the physical education and health standards for our primary and high schools will be revised to reflect a 21 century model. Competitive inter-school sports will feature prominently in our new education system. Collaboration between the Ministries of Community, Culture and Sport, Education, and Health will be paramount. Healthy children become healthy adults and, therefore, create a more sustainable society, which has less of a dependence on the healthcare system.
Mr. Speaker, Sport is seen by many as a more cost-effective approach to dealing with social problems than correcting the consequences of aggression, crime, violence and abuse through police, correctional or social services. Therefore, the next PLP Government will invest in our Sporting and Workmen Club's infrastructure. Our position is that these community-based facilities represent the best approach to developing our young people through sports. And while many clubs are plagued by violence in their midst, the PLP recognize that these same clubs represent the best vehicle to transform the thinking and behavior of our youth. Our plan includes the development of all clubs island-wide. We stand side by side with those clubs operating in the trenches. Whether it's St. Georges and St. David’s, Baileys Bay or Hot Peppers, Devonshire Rec and Western Stars, Paget FC, PHC, Southampton Rangers, Somerset Bridge, or Somerset Cricket club, your next PLP Government has your back.
All sports will receive an equal boost in funding and support, not just cricket and football. The PLP Government will reallocate resources saved from the National Security/Judiciary Ministry budgets as a result of our policy to legalize the use of cannabis.
Mr. Speaker, The next PLP Government will fully commit to the funding and expansion of the Mirrors Program. This is a program that is close to our hearts, as we know the supreme benefits that our young people may gain through participation.”
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