Many thousands of jobs in the economy of sport at risk from Covid-19

Before the Covid-19 crisis, the Labour Force Survey reported employment in sports activities and amusement and recreation activities of 31,300

The bunker in the middle of the green at the12th Hole at Doonbeg Golf Club; sport not only generates direct employment but sports bodies purchase ground maintenance equipment, printing, catering supplies, insurance, professional services and travel services, all of which generates jobs in other sectors. Picture: Eamon Ward

There is a wide appreciation of the social and health benefits of sport but limited public discussion of its contribution to the economy and of the substantial economic loss associated with the Covid-19 crisis. 

The size of the sector is apparent through its 12,000 clubs, more than 100 national governing bodies and local area sports partnerships, as well as the 1.7m people who participate in sports.