TRIESTE (ITALPRESS) – “Basic Sports and Bolkestein.” This is the event scheduled for October 14, 2024 at the Italian Naval League Section in Trieste for which the Italian Sailing Federation is calling attention. It is a meeting of fundamental importance that will be attended by leading institutional figures. Organized by the Ministry for Sport and Youth, the meeting aims to open a constructive debate around the implications of the Bolkestein directive, which affects state concessions and could have a significant impact on the structures of Sailing Clubs, pillars of our sport and the entire grassroots sports movement. The Federvela, which has always worked in the institutional venues, together with Coni, wants to reaffirm its role of representing the demands of affiliated Circles, and offer its support, so that they are protected and can continue to play their educational, social and sporting role within local communities. We are certainly in the crucial phase of the legislative process, awaiting the conversion of the Save Infractions DL No. 131, and the related amendments presented and currently under discussion. Speakers at the event will be Andrea Abodi, Minister for Sport and Youth; Donato Marzano, President of the Italian Naval League; Francesco Ettorre, President of the Italian Sailing Federation; Mitja Gialuz, President of the Società Velica di Barcola e Grignano; Massimo Proto, Professor of Private Law; Emanuele Loperfido and Debora Serracchiani, Representatives of the Chamber of Deputies. The event will be introduced and moderated by Massimiliano Atelli, Chief of Cabinet of the Ministry for Sport and Youth.Ahead of the meeting, FIV President Francesco Ettorre makes a heartfelt appeal to all affiliated clubs, reiterating the importance of a united stance to face this challenge: “Sailing Clubs are much more than just sports facilities. They represent the beating heart of our sport and play an irreplaceable role in promoting the fundamental values of our society, such as solidarity, inclusion and respect for the environment. A social and welfare role of the territory that must be defended in all fora. They are places where young people not only learn techniques, but above all grow as conscious citizens, learning the value of sports, teamwork and responsibility towards the sea and nature. Today, with the possible application of the Bolkestein directive to state concessions, these clubs face a challenge that could jeopardize their survival and, with it, the very future of sailing as a sport accessible to all. State concessions are not a luxury or a privilege, but an essential resource that allows Circles to operate, to welcome thousands of enthusiasts and to organize activities that not only enrich the sporting fabric, but also the economic and social fabric of local communities. It is essential that institutions understand the strategic role that Sailing Clubs play at the territorial level. They not only promote sports, but also contribute significantly to the local economy, through the organization of events that attract thousands of people, generating positive spillover effects on tourism and employment. Not to mention the contribution in terms of social inclusion, with specific programs aimed at people with disabilities, who find in our Circles a unique opportunity to experience the sea in an accessible and inclusive way. As a Federation, we are committed at all levels to defend our affiliates and guarantee them the stability they need to continue fulfilling their role. Our strength lies above all in the unity and cohesion of our network. I am sure that there will be, on the part of the institutions, the right sensitivity in understanding the importance of safeguarding these realities that have always represented a model of healthy and accessible sport, and that contribute to the cultural and social growth of our country. We must not forget that sailing, and sport in general, is not just competition: it is education, it is inclusion, it is development. It is because of their very nature as nonprofit entities, which insists that it is impossible to consider the issue of concessions in the same way as the category of bathers. Sports Societies are something else, and that is why they must be treated differently and, above all, cannot be included within the scope of the European Directive. Defending sport is not an option, but it is a duty.”- photo Federvela press office -(ITALPRESS).
