A new organization Sail Training Ireland will promote sailing and maritime activities for young people.
Ireland has not had a national sail training programme for young people since the sinking of the Asgard II in 2008.
This is set to change, however, with the establishment of Sail Training Ireland. Nigel Rowe who is president the organisation says the focus is on using the sail training experience to develop a range of life skills in young people.
Financial support in the form of bursaries will ensure that teenagers from all backgrounds can participate in Sail Training Ireland events.
It is hoped that a replacement for Asgard II will be purchased in the coming years. Kalanne O’Leary from Sail Training Ireland believes that this will be backed by the sailing community in Ireland.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 2 May 2011. The reporter is Joe O’Brien.
