Disparities and Nationalism in Irish Sport

Sport is not often thought of as an important function of society. Yet, over the course of Ireland’s history, sport has been a political institution and a venue for nationalism. Within its political structure, the practice of both individual and team sport reveals disparities in society. As an integral institution, sport should benefit the whole of the community not only specific groups, but the gaps between gender and income that exist in Ireland are replicated in sport. The nationalistic fervour during team play exposes an increasing problem of racism and xenophobia. Sport in Ireland only furthers inequalities in minority groups, memorializes its tragic history and questions identity in the North.
Disparity in Participation

Sociologist Katie Liston claims that, “...sport is unequivocally ‘good for society’ because it fulfils various positive functions, including the development of moral character at the individual and national levels, providing a safe release of aggression and social conflict, and promoting local, regional and international harmony.” By taking a sociological approach to the question of sport, one can see that not everyone has the opportunity to participate. Contrary to what Liston may believe, sport might actually have a negative impact on society because of the inequalities that exist. While the vast majority of Irish people participate in sport and physical activity, the nature of exercise varies depending on a range of factors: gender and income. From a purely statistical standpoint, one can see that a specific ‘group’ is pre-concieved to participate in a certain sport just because of who they are. By identifying where these gaps lie we can then figure out how to address the problem and find solutions to remedy.
One ‘at risk’ group is females: based on 1996 research conducted by the Department of Education and the Health Promotion Unit which found that, “77 per cent of men and 71 per cent of women participated in sports and physical

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