Evaluation

Sport Ireland evaluation framework showing systemic, project, and local evaluations with questions on what works, for whom, and under what conditions. Arrows connect all three evaluation types

The National Sports Policy 2018–2027 sets a clear goal: by 2027, 50% of the adult population (aged 16+) should be regularly playing sport.

To achieve this, Sport Ireland must make strong, evidence-informed decisions, backed by robust evaluation systems. We are committed to developing and implementing these systems, and significant progress has already been made.

Our evaluation work focuses on three core questions:

  1. What works?
  2. For whom?
  3. Under what conditions?

We use a combination of quantitative and qualitative tools to explore how to get people more active, identify which approaches work best for different groups, and understand the conditions that make them successful.

These guiding questions shape all evaluations across the full range of Sport Ireland investments, ensuring that resources are directed where they will have the most impact.