10) Conclusion

The world-wide survey on the state of Physical Education, and other international research provides an enormous challenge to address the status and resources for Physical Education. Most government departments are working hard trying to balance the overwhelming number of requests for their limited resources. However, when Physical Education is not incorporated as an integral part of the education process, the consequences can be long-lasting and manifold. All learners should be provided with a sound knowledge of a healthy and safe way of living. As education is a life-long process, sound health and human movement practices can contribute to the prevention of health-related problems and can improve the quality of life of learners.

In spite of the expansion of elite Sport and Sport for all programmes in recent years, opportunities for children to participate in Physical Education have been significantly curtailed. The time required for Physical Education in schools is not being respected and is even being substantially reduced in many countries because of changing priorities. The reduction of Physical Education programmes, has contributed to the phenomenal rise in juvenile delinquency and violence, and rising medical and social costs. Studies undertaken at international levels indicate that $1 invested in Physical Activity leads to a saving of $3.2 in medical costs.

The PESS Department at the University of Limerick and the PEAI encourage policy makers to ensure that Physical Education and Sport are firmly incorporated in school programmes or, as a minimum, that their legal requirements with respect to Physical Education programmes in school curricula are met.

Working together we can make a difference for our most precious resource -- today's children and youth.