Sports Capital Programme

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 March 2017

Tuesday, 28 March 2017

Ceisteanna (556)

Éamon Ó Cuív

Ceist:

556. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the reason the provision of proper training by experts in the use of defibrillators to club volunteers is not an eligible cost under the capital sports programme in view of the fact that the capital cost of same is an eligible cost; his views on whether to ensure the full benefit of such equipment proper training is necessary; if he consulted with the Department of Health on this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15189/17]

Freagraí scríofa

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

The Sports Capital Programme (SCP) is the Government's primary vehicle to support the development of sports facilities and the purchase of sports equipment. The guide to making an application is available on my Department's website and sets out what is eligible under the scheme. The scheme covers capital works and equipment. Current expenditure, including training, is not eligible.

The most recent round of the SCP closed for applications on the 24th February. By this time 2,320 applications seeking €155m in funding were received. The total amount available to allocate under this round of the SCP is €30m. In view of this level of demand for sports capital works and equipment and the overall purpose of the scheme, I have no plans to amend the terms of the SCP to cover any current expenditure. Funding for such training may be available from other sources.