Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 May 2005
95 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if, in regard to capital grants awarded by his Department to Shamrock Rovers Football Club to allow it to complete its new stadium, he has satisfied himself that all moneys were used for the purposes allocated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15003/05]
View answerAs I indicated previously, capital grants totalling €2.57 million were allocated in respect of the Shamrock Rovers stadium in Tallaght, under the sports capital programme, which is administered by my Department.
A total of €2.44 million of this amount has been paid out to Slonepark Limited, the Shamrock Rovers stadium development company, in respect of works certified by invoices to the value of €3.3 million. As provided for under the terms and conditions of the sports capital programme relating to grants awarded in respect of large projects, all invoices submitted by the applicant were cleared for payment by the Office of Public Works, in advance of any payment of the approved grants being made. At the same time, the project was the subject of an inspection as work progressed by the Office of Public Works, which acts as technical advisers to the Department in the administration of the sports capital programme. I am therefore satisfied that the €2.44 million paid out to date was used entirely towards the development of the stadium and I can report that these grants have been secured through the execution of a deed of trust which provides for a legal avenue by which the Minister may seek repayment of the grant moneys.
I have indicated that I am prepared to engage with South Dublin County Council in the development of a strategy for the completion of the stadium as soon as the council gains possession of the site.
