John Treacy 6/5/2015

REPRO FREE***PRESS RELEASE NO REPRODUCTION FEE*** Minister Ring Launches Irish Sports Council Anti Ð Doping Annual Review, Dublin 6/5/2015 The Irish Sports Council today published their Anti-Doping figures for 2014. Last year, the Council conducted 1054 tests including 279 blood tests. The increased emphasis on blood testing has further developed the intelligence led approach within the Anti- Doping Programme as blood testing figures increased by 31% in 2014. Speaking at the launch, Minister of State for Sport, Michael Ring T.D commented ÒFor over 15 years, the Irish Sports Council has been entrusted by my Department to combat doping in Ireland and we are resolute that our fight against doping is constant, determined and ultimately successful. My commitment is underpinned by the fact that I have taken the opportunity in the Sport Ireland Bill, currently before the Seanad, to update the regulations on Anti-doping. We in Ireland are committed to inspiring fair play in sport and protecting the rights of clean athletes and I want to send a clear message out today that doping should not be tolerated at any level.Ó Pictured today John Treacy, Chief Executive, Irish Sports Council Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/James Crombie