Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 January 2021
120. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the degree to which she expects to assist in the provision of sporting and recreational facilities throughout Ireland with maximum community benefit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3521/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Sports Capital and Equipment Programme is the primary vehicle for Government support for the development of sports and physical recreation facilities and the purchase of non-personal sports equipment throughout the country.
Grants are available to voluntary, not-for profit sports clubs, community groups, NGBs, and local authorities. Third level colleges, Education and Training Boards (ETBs) and schools may only apply for funding jointly with sports clubs or organisations.
The Programme for Government commits to continuing the SCEP and to prioritise the investment in disadvantaged areas. On 30th November, Minister Catherine Martin and I announced that a new 2020 round of the Programme was opening with applications accepted from 11th December. The closing date for applications is the 1st March. At least €40 million is available and it is planned to make allocations later in 2021.
Any organisation that has not already registered with the Department and wishes to apply for funding must first register on www.sportscapitalprogramme.ie. Organisations must have a tax registration number from the Revenue Commissioners if they wish to register.
It is a key objective of the programme to encourage the sharing of sports facilities and applications that demonstrate sharing receive extra marks at assessment stage.
