Given the importance of sport from a public health and quality of life perspective the decision of the Government to attempt to pass legislation to remove charitable status from sporting organisations is all the more bizarre, according to Westport Town Councillor Peter Flynn.
Cllr Flynn has expressed his delight that his party Fine Gael succeeded in a vote in the Senate to defeat the Government parties last week in their attempt to remove the status of sporting organisations as charitable organisations.
“This important decision will have major implications for fundraising activities of sporting organisations in the Westport area,” said Cllr Flynn. He added: “whilst the amendment will not make fundraising any easier it will, at least, ensure that charitable donations to sporting organisations will still attract tax benefits despite the Government’s best efforts.”
In Westport over the next 12 months the local GAA and soccer clubs are both seeking substantial funding for two major projects; if the original bill had been passed it would have seriously jeopardised the fundraising potential of both developments. With clubs being allowed to claim charitable status it means donations over €250 can be set against tax either by the individual or the club.
“Sporting bodies have a key role to play in local communities, in promoting health, in tackling issues of social exclusion and in advancing community welfare. As our economy deteriorates and unemployment increases sport will become an even more important aspect of everyday life. Unfortunately this Bill can be overturned in the Dáil by the Government when it comes to report stage but Fine Gael has again demonstrated that they understand what is happening on the ground, unlike Fianna Fáil TDs, senators and councillors who have lost complete touch with reality,” said Cllr Flynn.
