Pictured at the announcement of Team NI for the XXI Commonwealth Games Gold Coast, Australia are (l-r); Brendan Courtney, Head of Sports Services, Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council; Fionnaula Toner (Netball), Ewan McAteer (Gymnastics), Mandy McMaster, General Team Manager, Dame Mary Peters, CH, DBE, Patron of Northern Ireland Commonwealth Games Council; Elaine Rice (Netball Coach), Niamh Cooper (Netball) and Alderman James Tinsley, Chairman of Leisure and Community Development Committee.

The strength and depth of sporting provision within the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council area was reflected in the makeup of the Northern Ireland Commonwealth Games Team announced today.

The Council area although one of the smallest in size supplies one of if not the largest number of Competitors, Officials, Support Staff and Coaches. Furthermore a number of team members who live outside the Council area compete for Teams in Lisburn & Castlereagh including Larkfield and Kingsway Netball Clubs.

Alderman James Tinsley Chairman of the Council s Leisure & Community Development Committee who attended the Team announcement stated:

"I commend the skill, motivation and dedication of all the local sports people who have been selected to attend the 21st Commonwealth Games in the Gold Coast Australia. Furthermore the numbers selected reflect the strength of our clubs and coaches who provide the opportunities for excellence. Thus enhancing the already vibrant sporting structures within the Council Area."

The Council will consider how best it can assist the athletes to ensure they have the opportunity to perform at their best when the Games begin on April 4th 2018.