€30m funding announced for sports projects in Ireland

A new €30m fund for important sports capital projects has been launched.

Announced today by Minister of State for Tourism and Sport Michael Ring, the €30m represents the first round of sports capital funding for four years.

"The Sports Capital Programme is the main channel of Government support for developing sports facilities and purchasing sports equipment for sports clubs and organisations across Ireland," Minister Ring said in a statement.

The scheme will also be open to far more clubs and groups than ever before, because a strict requirement on land ownership has been relaxed.

In the past, all applicants had to own their land or have it on a long lease. The Minister said these clubs will now be able to apply for grants of up to €25,000 to upgrade facilities.

“This new Sports Capital scheme will have a stronger focus on projects which increase active participation in sport, particularly in disadvantaged areas," Minister Ring said.

"Under this scheme pitches will be drained, floodlights will be installed, sports halls will be improved and dressing rooms will be built," he added.

"It will also have a positive impact on job creation in construction.”

The deadline for online applications falls on June 1, while sports club submitting paper applications must do so by May 11.

Application forms and information about how to apply is available on the website.