Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 29 November 2023
83. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media for an update on a project which has applied under the LSSIF (details supplied); if she can provide an update on this case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [52738/23]
View answerThe first Large Scale Sport Infrastrure Fund (LSSIF) allocations were announced just prior to the arrival of the Covid-19 pandemic. The pandemic gave rise to financial challenges for all grantees with many of them having to reprioritise their own expenditure plans due to reductions in their income streams. In more recent times, the high level of construction inflation has also presented considerable challenges for grantees.
In light of these issues, it was considered timely to review progress on all projects allocated grants and meetings with all grantees have taken place. It is encouraging that, based on these discussions, a majority of the 33 projects should be in a position to draw down funding in the next 12 months.
Following engagement with the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform and in recognition of challenges, such as construction inflation, officials in my Department wrote to all LSSIF grantees inviting them to apply for additional support by 4 August. To be considered for additional funding, grantees were advised that the key elements of the project should remain as set out in the original application and that priority would be given to those who provide evidence-based documentation to support their application.
I can confirm that the project referenced has applied for additional support and Minister Martin and I hope to be in a position to confirm further support to grantees in the coming period to ensure that all existing LSSIF projects are advanced.
