Sports clubs and voluntary groups get €11m boost
Sports clubs and voluntary groups across Dublin are to be given more than €10m to improve facilities a bid to get more people involved, it was revealed today.
Some 92 organisations will benefit from the Government funding with the cash being used to modernise dressing rooms, buy new equipment and ensure well designed safe sporting environments in dozens of communities.
In all €10.9m will go to projects across the city under the Sports Capital Programme 2006.
John O’Donoghue, Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, said the money would improve and enhance the valuable service they provide for hundreds of people.
“The allocation of €10.9m to 92 organisations in Dublin will benefit thousands of people who participate in sport and who enjoy community facilities in towns and villages throughout the county,” the minister said.
“I am especially pleased to recognise the immense contribution that volunteers in sports clubs and organisations in Dublin make in their communities.
“I am confident that this funding will be used in positive ways to raise the standard of the service that they provide and to attract more people to participate in sport and to take advantage of community services.”
The 92 sports facilities in Dublin receiving funding are among over 700 projects throughout the country who will benefit from a total allocation of over €53m.
Organisations benefiting from the scheme include Darndale Park, Malahide Demesne Park and Wayside Celtic FC who will each receive €500,000 to improve dressing rooms and other facilities.
GAA, athletics, boxing, soccer, rugby and tennis clubs will be given handouts along with community centres across the city.
Others aspects of the scheme include €65,000 for a skateboarding surface at John Paul Park, €25,000 to buy a boat for Howth Yacht Club and €15,000 on equipment for Dalkey Scuba Diving Club.
