Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 28 November 2013
185. Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will allocate a sports capital grant to a club (details supplied) in County Kerry, to allow for the development of its new playing pitches and facilities; if he will take into consideration the error that was made with this application and provide funding to this club at an early date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51208/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraAll of the funding available under the 2012 Sports Capital Programme was allocated last year. The initial assessment of this submission was deemed invalid. It was subsequently declared by the Department to be valid - but this was after the local projects from Kerry were reviewed and allocations made. This project was then considered with applicants for regional projects and was unsuccessful. €26 million was allocated to 615 sports clubs and organisations. €5 million was allocated for 32 regional projects.
Unfortunately, with over €7.50 sought for every €1 available under the 2012 Programme it was not possible to fund every valid project. Almost 500 valid applications were in the same position as this club and were not funded. Submitting a valid application does not in any way guarantee funding. Any sports organisation with a suitable project may apply for funding under the next round of the Sports Capital Programme under the terms and conditions that will apply. I hope to make an announcement on the next round of the Programme before the end of the year.
