Two sports projects in Galway have been awarded €3.2 million from the second round of allocations under the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF).
Minister Catherine Martin has today announced a total of €173 million in funding for major sports projects around the country under the LSSIF.
In Galway €2 million will go towards new and improved pitches at St Jarlath’s Tuam, and another €1.3 million has been allocated for a multisport pitch at Kinvara Hockey Club.
All applications submitted under the LSSIF Fund were required to have the prioritised endorsement of a National Governing Body for Sport (NGB) or a Local Authority.
This prioritisation was one of a number of factors taken into account in the assessment and ultimate ranking of projects.
It was informed by factors such as the potential to enhance sports participation, sustainability, similar access for both men and women, and the ability to execute the project within a specified timeframe.
A number of sporting disciplines will benefit under this round of the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund, including football; Gaelic games; athletics; basketball; rugby; hockey; swimming and water-based sports; cricket; golf; and cycling.
Projects allocated LSSIF funding will now proceed to further evaluation and due diligence processes, which will vary in extent and nature based on the size and specifics of each project.
A new “use it or lose it” clause has been introduced which will ensure that if there has been no drawdown of any part of a grant within 2-3 years (timelines may vary from project to project), or before a new LSSIF round is announced, the grant offer will be deemed withdrawn.
In relation to the LSSIF applications which have not received an allocation, the Department will publish a reserve list in the coming period on which all valid applications will be placed and assessed. When additional LSSIF funding becomes available, it is envisaged that projects on the reserve list can then be funded.
Speaking at the announcement today, Minister Martin said, “The advantages of engaging in sports, regardless of age, are profound both mentally and physically. To meet our ambitious goals of increasing participation in sports, it is essential to have facilities like these.”
“The Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund plays a crucial role in our strategy to enhance physical activity and well-being among the population.”
“By investing in these significant projects, we are ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background or ability, has access to high-quality sports facilities.”
“This funding will help to create a legacy of sporting excellence in Ireland, inspiring future generations to engage in physical activity and pursue their sporting ambitions.
“Through this unprecedented investment, the government is establishing a foundation for a more promising future in sports and recreation, emphasising accessibility, sustainability, and community engagement.”
“The journey towards building a more active and healthier nation continues, and these projects will play a crucial role in achieving that vision.”
“The standard of facilities has also improved greatly through Government investment in recent years and I have no doubt that these facilities will inspire more people to participate in sport in the future. I look forward to see this funding in action”.
| Group | Project Description | Sport | Grant |
| Kinvara Hockey Club | To develop a regional FIH certified (national standard) hockey/multisport pitch with adjoining 2G MUGA, fencing, floodlighting, MUGA, Tennis & Bocce Courts. | Hockey | €1.3 million |
| St Jarlath’s, Tuam | Development of a full-size 4G, floodlit, all-weather synthetic pitch, redevelopment of the existing grass training pitches into a full-size grass playing pitch, Sports pavilion; pavilion could be a phase 2 element at this funding level. | GAA /
LGFA |
€2 million |
| Total: €3,200,000 | |||
