DEAFLYMPICS GAMES AND DEAF ATHLETES

Early day motion 934, tabled 2 March 2009 by Lord Bruce of Bennachie (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 57 members.

That this House congratulates the Deaflympics as the second oldest multi-sport and cultural festival in the world, with a proud history stretching back to the first Deaflympic Games in Paris in 1924; notes the opportunity that the Games present in allowing deaf athletes the chance to participate and enjoy an Olympic experience; further notes that deaf athletes do not have the chance to participate in Paralympic Games; recognises the struggle the Great Britain Deaflympics team has faced in raising funds to support the team; further recognises that some athletes may be unable to compete at the next championships due to lack of funds; calls on the Government to support the team in any way it can, including by encouraging greater engagement through the national sporting bodies; and extends its very best wishes for the Great British team in the forthcoming Deaflympic Games in Taiwan in September 2009.

Signatures by party: Labour 23, Liberal Democrat 20, Conservative 5, DUP 4, Independent 1, Plaid Cymru 1, Scottish National Party 1, Social Democratic and Labour Party 1, UUP 1.