PRESS RELEASE

04/01/2006

Sports clubs urged to bid for grant aid before January 20 deadline - Kelleher

Cork North-Central Fianna Fáil TD Billy Kelleher has urged local sports clubs and organisations to apply for money under the national lottery-funded 2006 Sports Capital Programme before the Friday, January 20 deadline.

The Dillon’s Cross-based Fianna Fáil TD, who is deputy Government chief whip, said the sooner applications are submitted to the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism the better because there is enormous demand each year.

‘This is an excellent opportunity for sports organisations to develop their potential. The funding covers upgrading or building sports facilities or buying sports equipment that will be used for at least five years.

‘Funding can be allocated to voluntary and community organisations, including sports clubs, under the scheme. In certain circumstances, schools, colleges and local authorities are also entitled to funding - but in all cases applications must be made before January 20,’ said Deputy Kelleher.

He said many sports groups in northside Cork have seen the clear benefits of this funding in the past.

‘It has allowed them to develop their sports facilities and to put in place new amenities that serve the recreational needs of local people. Our young people deserve the best coaching facilities available to help put Ireland at the forefront of international sports and athletics.

‘The consistent generous and dispersed funding throughout the country year after year demonstrates the Fianna Fáil-led Government’s commitment to providing financial support to sports clubs and organisations at grassroots level.

‘We must get it right from the start because it is here that a love of sport is cultivated among young people who could be our future sporting heroes,’ said Deputy Kelleher.

ENDS