With Fitness and the National Physical Activity Plan high on the agenda of politicians and the public it was an opportune day to unveil the agenda yesterday for the Ireland Active Conference and White Flag Awards.
Both will take place on 11th November at the Hodson Bay Hotel in Athlone with Dublin GAA star Philly McMahon as a keynote speaker.
The White Flag National Quality Standard, grades facilities’ operational standards, similar to the Blue Flag award which classifies Ireland’s beaches, and it is the most sought after accolade in the leisure and fitness industry. It is the only industry specific award for the Irish leisure and fitness sector and this year has seen over 100 entrants for the Awards.
There is still work to be done in terms of standards as that number only represents 20% of the total number of gyms and fitness establishments out there and Ireland Active CEO Conn McCluskey is keen to see increased regulation of the sector from a Government perspective.
“The White Flag Awards which set the standard for leisure, hotel and fitness centres in Ireland. Our members are continually striving to improve quality in our industry.”
“Others are operating in a legislative vacuum. Â We are working with the Department of Environment to look at ways in which high standards can be part of the funding of facilities across the country by local authorities.”
“It’s a process of continual improvement and the White Flag is a key part of that.”
The White Flag National quality standard is based on the four essential areas when operating any leisure or fitness centre: Safety, Hygiene, Customer Engagement and HR.”
The standard is designed to encourage continuous improvement and it is categorised into three levels for the leisure and fitness sector: Gold, Silver and Bronze. Awards are also given for the hotel sector at two levels: Emerald and Diamond and an Accessibility Award is given for centres which excel at making their facilities accessible for people with a disability.
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