Sports clubs in Galway City and County have been awarded more than €1.6 million in funding for new equipment.
Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media Catherine Martin has announced more than €26 million for over 900 clubs around the country.
The allocations under the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme are in response to equipment-only applications which sporting organisations submitted.
Over 900 sports groups were successful in their applications for various types of equipment which will be of practical benefit to multiple sports organisations, their members and athletes across Ireland.
Further allocations under the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme, including those for capital works, and capital works tied with an equipment component, will be announced later.
Minister Martin said, “Our sporting organisations are at the heart of our communities providing opportunities to people to participate in healthy activities and to enjoy the successes of their local teams and sporting heroes.”
“I am delighted to confirm the largest ever allocation of grants for equipment under the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme.”
“The significant funding announced today will assist a vast range of sporting organisations around the country and be a great source of support to local teams on and off the field of play.”
“Minister Thomas Byrne and I are committed to providing continued supports to sporting organisations to increase participation in sport in communities across Ireland.”
“I am confident that the revised allocations under the National Development Plan will also allow for significant funding to be allocated for capital works when the necessary assessments of applications are completed.”
Minister Thomas Byrne added, “The diversity of organisations which will receive this record level of sports equipment funding illustrates the passion and interest that we have as a nation for sport in all its forms.”
“The work done on a voluntary basis throughout the country in sports organisations is invaluable and it is only right that the Government plays its part in facilitating sporting participation and excellence across the country.”
“In an Olympic year, it is appropriate that we illustrate the Government’s commitment to sport and participation through strong investment in the facilities and equipment needed.”
“I look forward to confirming further capital funding for the sports sector under the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme.”
The full list of clubs which have received funding under the programme can be viewed here.
