§ Lady HermonTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what progress has been made in 769W providing further funds for circuit safety work at the North West 200 circuit and the Ulster Grand Prix Motorcycle circuits; and what discussions have taken place to identify (a) a schedule and (b) the cost of safety works at North West 200 and Ulster Grand Prix circuits. [92939]
§ Angela SmithThere has been ongoing discussions regarding the need for safety works at the North West 200 and Ulster Grand Prix circuits. Schedules detailing the extent and the cost of the work required were submitted to the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure on the 15 January and these are presently under consideration.
§ Lady HermonTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what progress has been made with the proposal to permit motorcycle road racing clubs responsible for the North West 200 and the Ulster Grand Prix to access the Health and Safety funds created for sporting stadia in order to finance essential safety work at their respective circuits. [92940]
§ Angela SmithThe Sports Council for Northern Ireland will be drawing up proposals for a new programme which will take account of health and safety needs at sporting venues in the province. The new scheme will be subject to consultation prior to its introduction in 2003–04. The total cost is circa £90,000.