Obesity Strategy

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 October 2016

Wednesday, 19 October 2016

Questions (164)

Louise O'Reilly

Question:

164. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if there are funds available to assist communities in healthy living initiatives, supports and infrastructure in view of the fact that there is a renewed focus on tackling the issue of obesity in general and in particular childhood obesity; if he can work with a community in an area (details supplied) where an important community facility is at risk of closure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31045/16]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport

The Sports Capital Programme is operated by my Department and provides grants to assist in the development of sports facilities and the provision of sports equipment. Grants are available to sports clubs, voluntary and community groups.  I understand the facility referred to by the Deputy has previously received €240,000 in grants under the Programme.

It should be noted that the Sports Capital Programme does not assist with the current day to day funding of clubs. 

As was confirmed in the 2017 Estimates Statement, a new round of the Sports Capital Programme will open for applications in January with the announcement of allocations expected later in 2017. It will be open to any organisation with a suitable project to apply for funding.