Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 February 2024
241. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if her attention has been drawn to the environmental initiatives being carried out (details supplied); if her officials could engage with the board of this club to see if their work is replicable in other clubs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8880/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Sports Capital and Equipment Programme (SCEP) is the primary vehicle for Government support for the development of sports and recreation facilities and the purchase of non-personal sports equipment throughout the country.
The latest round of the SCEP (2023) closed for applications on Friday 8 September, 2023. As is set out in the SCEP 2023: Guide to making an Application , the Department is committed to climate action and reducing emissions in line with national targets to reduce emissions by 51% by 2030 setting the path to net zero emissions by 2050. Sports clubs have a vital role to play in the transition to a low-carbon society and the Department is expanding supports to facilitate this transition. The SCEP has historically funded a range of green measures including modifications to sports facilities to reduce energy consumption and has restricted funding for floodlighting to LED floodlights. Furthermore, under the 2023 round, additional marks will likely be awarded to applicants which demonstrate their commitment to climate adaptation through their:
• reduction in energy usage;
• adoption of renewable energy technology;
• development of electric vehicle charging facilities;
• use of sustainable building materials;
• biodiversity protection and restoration;
• reduction in resource usage i.e. sustainable waste and water management;
• development of sustainability strategies/climate action plans;
• promotion of positive behavioural changes amongst members/users;
• active travel facilities.
Officials in Sports Capital division are available to speak to clubs should they have any queries or feedback. Contact details are available online at www.gov.ie/en/service/d13385-sports-capital-programme/#further-information.
