Finn Harps have pleaded with the people of Donegal to get behind them in the wake of the fall-out of a donation of €20,000 from Donegal County Council.
The public has been divided on whether the club should be given the cash to help them keep their heads above water.
A statement issued today form the club said “The potential economic, social and sporting benefits will be fully realised if we can increase the sense of collective responsibility, ownership and goodwill for the project within the county.”
It added it would like to place on record its sincere gratitude to the County Manager Seamus Neely, and the members of Donegal County Council for their efforts in securing funding for the club this week.
“The news has come as a tremendous boost to our hard working volunteers and fans, who are engaged in an intensive fundraising campaign, in order to secure a future for senior football for the county, in 2012 and beyond. The news also indicates that the council recognises the importance of the club to Donegal.
“The monies allocated will be used to assist the club comply with FAI licensing criteria, which will include addressing structural and safety requirements within Finn Park.
“We would also like to take this opportunity to briefly clarify the current strategy of the club, and articulate the benefits the future Finn Harps can bring to Donegal.
“In recent seasons the club has operated from a low cost base with the emphasis placed on youth development, combined with an extensive community based programme,” it read.
The number of local players who have progressed to the senior team has been unprecedented, and the U19 side currently sit top of the Northern division of the National League.
There are currently 91 schools registered in the Finn Harps in the Community programme which also includes projects concerning road safety, social inclusion and health / well being issues.
“The construction of the new stadium will create much needed employment for the region, and it is planned that the new venue will host large concerts and events attracting economic activity to the region.
“A stadium with state of the art facilities will also offer the Donegal sporting public an exciting opportunity to support/build a senior team which can compete at the top table of Irish football.
“The new site will also be a designated FAI Centre of Excellence giving Donegal’s best young players a unique environment to develop their ability.”
The statement added the club has in recent times endeavoured to be transparent as possible on all issues and is fully committed to consultation with all stakeholders
“We would again like to thank all those who are supporting the club through the difficult economic environment, and invite the wider north west public to help us create an exciting future for Donegal sporting life.”