Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 4 Feb 1999

Vol. 499 No. 5

Written Answers. - Sports Capital Programme.

Bernard Allen

Question:

113 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation the funding made available for pilot sports projects in disadvantaged areas in 1998; the locations and the amount allocated; the staff employed in these projects; and the pilot projects, if any, he proposes to set up in 1999. [3116/99]

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation (Dr. McDaid)

As the Deputy is aware, the new sports capital programme was recently announced. Under this programme, special priority will be given to proposals for facilities in disadvantaged areas, in line with Government policy aimed at increasing participation in sport and recreation in these areas.

Meanwhile, in conjunction with the Sports Council, my Department is also currently considering proposals for special sport and recreation initiatives at local level in disadvantaged areas. The Department has already agreed a pilot scheme with the Gaelic Athletic Association for the development of, and increase of participation in, hurling and football in disadvantaged areas in major urban areas. An amount of £40,000 was paid to the GAA in 1998 towards the project. Proposals have also been received from the FAI in relation to initiatives for the development of their sport in disadvantaged areas and these are being considered. Proposals are awaited from the IRFU. Before finalising any further proposals, including the designation of any area for possible pilot projects, the Department will be consulting further with the appropriate vocational education committees, local authorities and sporting organisations.

Finally, the proposals received in my Department under the young people's facilities and services fund, which are currently being considered, include proposals for the involvement of young people in the pursuit of sport and recreation activities.