PRESS RELEASE

£M's available for sports groups

Sports and voluntary organisations were urged today to make applications for major capital grants, by Deputy Billy Kelleher today. Opportunity exists for sports clubs seeking funding for new clubhouses, for playgrounds, parks and other recreation facilities, said the Cork North Central TD today. "Last year £36 million was disbursed from this fund to approximately 600 groups all over the city and county. This grant aid must be part matched by clubs and voluntary groups-ten per cent for applicants in disadvantaged areas and just twenty per cent for other areas." "In the past these grants which are funded by the National Lottery have provided vital funds for significant projects that are central to the fabric of life in the community, specifically the recent grant allocation to a Dublin city park, League of Ireland grounds and regional county grounds." "The grants aim to help sports organisations, clubs and community groups at all levels of organisation and size throughout the country. Special priority is being given to the development of facilities in disadvantaged areas in line with Government policy aimed at increasing participation in sport and recreation." "The grants will provide funding for infrastructure in sports, such as spending on sports halls and upgrading of pitches," added the Fianna Fáil TD. "Application forms are available from the Department of Tourism, Sport and Recreation and on-line from the Department's website at www.irl.gov.ie/tourism-sport Applicants should begin their application now, as the closing date is Friday 9th February," said Deputy Kelleher.