NI Sports Minister welcomes European Cricket Championship

Northern Ireland's Sports Minister Michael McGimpsey has said that Northern Ireland’s credibility as a venue for international events had again been reinforced by the decision to hold the European Cricket Championships in the Province.

Speaking at a reception held at Parliament Buildings to welcome players and officials representing the 12 competing countries to Northern Ireland the Minister said tournaments such as this were a wonderful opportunity for the province to set out its stall and show the world "our potential and our capabilities".

Mr McGimpsey said the fact that the Championship would use 24 venues in Northern Ireland would ensure that as many people as possible would get the opportunity to view the tournament.

He added: “I have long emphasised that sport should not be viewed as an add-on to other facets of modern society, but should be seen as one of the ways we can enhance our lives and reinvigorate our communities. International tournaments such as this can help us do this by allowing us to be part of prestigious international events and by seeing first-hand, those who set the standards for international excellence in their chosen sport.”

The tournament, which is held every two years, was set to start on Friday July 19 but has been delayed due to the poor weather.

(MB)