Galway clubs should apply now for Sports Capital funding, according to Fine Gael Galway West TD, Sean Kyne who was speaking after confirmation from the Minister for Sport, Michael Ring TD, that an extra €40 million has been secured for Sports Capital Programme in 2015.
“It is very welcome that once again, Sports Capital funding will be provided to clubs and local organisations around the country in the coming year,” said Deputy Kyne.
“The economic recovery allowed this Government to re-instate the Programme after it was closed by Fianna Fáil during the recession. “We understand the importance of sport to communities around the country and the imperative to fund it.
“Money spent on sport is money saved on healthcare down the road. According to the Department of Sport, 90 per cent of Sports Capital recipients say it has helped them to increase the numbers of people involved in sport.
He said that the €40 million for 2015 brings to €130 million the total amount made available by this Government for the development of vital sports infrastructure.
“There is a two-step process for any club or organisation wishing to apply for this funding. All Galway clubs planning to apply must register on the online system on www.sportscapitalprogramme.ie before 5pm on Friday April 10 (if not already registered ). They must then get their applications in online before 5pm on Friday, April 24.
“If any club is concerned about getting their application right, they should look at the handy guide on the website. The Department of Sport has also made some helpful YouTube videos to supplement this guide and show you how best to prepare your application.”
The programme funds:
— Natural grass sports pitches, tracks and courts (including pitch drainage )
— Floodlighting
— Artificial sports pitches, tracks, courts and multi-use games areas
— Security fencing, ball stop netting and goal posts
— Hurling walls / handball alleys
— Building or refurbishment of dressing rooms, showers and toilets
— Building or refurbishment of sports halls and gyms
— Non-personal sports equipment including lawn mowers and defibrillators. Anything set in the ground (such as goal posts ) is not considered equipment.
— Any other capital projects that are clearly sporting in nature and that will increase participation in sport or improve performance.
