Vol. 513 No. 5
17 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation the extent, if any, to which he has participated in the identification of suitable locations for the provision of strategically placed sporting stadiums; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2849/00]
The sports capital programme which is operated by my Department provides funding towards the provision of sporting facilities at national, regional and local level. Prior to deciding on the funding for national and regional facilities my Department, in addition to the normal assessment criteria, consults with the national governing bodies of the organisations in question with a view to establishing their present and future priorities. My Department also consults with the Irish Sports Council, other Government Departments and with the local authorities in relation to the provision of sporting facilities. Under the programme, special priority is given to proposals for facilities in disadvantaged areas, in line with Government policy aimed at increasing participation in sport and recreation in these areas.
