Moves to establish the Irish Sports Council on a statutory basis, are to be advanced this week with the recruitment of staff to implement the measures promised by Dr James McDaid, Minister for Tourism, Trade and Recreation.
Initial contracts will run until the council is established statutorily and at that point, suitable candidates will be eligible for consideration for appointment by the new council.
The posts to be advertised, with annual salaries are - senior development officer (£32,485), four development officers (£22,076) assistant to executive chairman (£12,103) and secretarial assistant (£11,263).
"This recruitment reflects my determination to ensure that our future sports development is anchored on the availability of a strong support pool of skills and expertise," said McDaid.
"Government spending on sport will amount to £26 million in 1998 - double last year's figure. We must now ensure that this substantial investment of taxpayers' money in sport, is spent in the most focused and professional manner. I am now glad to begin this process."
