Sports clubs, community groups and schools are being encouraged to apply for the Sports Capital Programme before this Friday’s deadline. The funding can be used to develop sports infrastructure.
Interested parties must register on the Online Sports Capital Register (OSCAR system) at www.sportscapitalprogramme.ie before 5pm this Friday October 5th with final applications to be lodged by 5pm on Friday October 19th 2018.
Fianna Fáil TD for Donegal Charlie McConalogue is reminding all local groups of the benefits the funding can bring:
“The Sports Capital Programme is a vital funding stream for small clubs and organisations to ensure that they can upgrade and develop sports infrastructure. Things like floodlights, artificial sports pitches, tracks, security fencing, refurbishment of sports halls and gyms can all be secured through the programme funding. The grant also covers other capital projects that will increase participation in sport or improve performance”, said Deputy McConalogue.
“Over 70 clubs and organisations in Donegal received funding under the Sports Capital Programme last year. This was a larger number than previous application rounds due to a decision by the Department of Sport to allocate some level of funding to all applications that met the basic criteria. This meant that in many cases the amount received by organisations was insufficient for them to be able to make any meaningful progress or commence their projects.
“A review of the programme has recommended that the application process returns to the previous approach. This would see larger grants approved for successful candidates, allowing them to progress their projects. However, it remains unclear what approach will be followed this year.
“I have contacted the Minister to get clarity on the new procedure so that clubs will be aware of the approach to be taken, but the Minister has still to respond.
“The Sports Capital Programme has changed the landscape for sporting organisations across Donegal and has increased the number of people taking up sport. I am encouraging groups to apply for this funding and to contact my office if they require any help”, concluded Deputy McConalogue.
