Local Fianna Fáil Deputy Robert Troy has welcomed increased thresholds for sports capital funding aimed at helping local sports clubs.
Deputy Troy's party colleague, Minister of State for Sport and Physical Education, Deputy Thomas Byrne and Sports Minister, Deputy Catherine Martin, recently announced that a new round of the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme (SCEP ) will open for new applications from Monday, July 17.
The SCEP is the Government’s primary vehicle for providing support to sports clubs and communities to develop sports infrastructure around the country.
The maximum grant for local projects has been increased from €150,000 to €200,000 while the maximum valid grant available for projects deemed to be of regional significance has been increased from €300,000 to €500,000.
This year there is also a specific focus on climate action, sustainability and gender equality.
“I’m delighted that the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme will open for applications on July 17. I would encourage all clubs planning to improve their facilities to apply for the support.
“We need more and more people to take part in sport and physical activity. It’s not only good for people physically it’s also hugely beneficial to their mental health. By improving sports facilities across the country Fianna Fáil in Government hopes we’ll get more people involved in sports," Deputy Troy said.
The Westmeath TD also welcomed the focus on climate action, sustainability and gender equality.
“Local clubs are going to be helped take steps to reduce their energy consumption and for the first time in the history of the SCEP, project will only be considered for grant support if access is guaranteed to men and women on equal terms,” he added.
“In a bid to increase female participation, all applications for funding of women-only facilities will be deemed valid for consideration.
“These are important improvements for SCEP which I wholeheartedly back. We need to make sure that more women partake in sports and these measures will help do that," Deputy Troy concluded.
