Sports facilities funding
Deputy Hourigan sought more space and facilities for community sport in urban areas. The Tánaiste said a new sports capital funding round would open later in the year and should consider shortages in urban areas and access for underrepresented groups.
On behalf of the Green Party, I echo the Leas-Cheann Comhairle's thanks to the staff, who have done incredible work in a difficult situation. The programme for Government contains a commitment to promote more physical exercise among all sections of the community. I have two queries about that. We are all aware of the positive physical and mental well-being benefits of support, as well as how it brings communities together. I have had numerous representations from groups here in Dublin Central about getting access to more space. As an example, Na Fianna GAA club is nearing the point where it may have to start limiting the number of children who can attend training due to the lack of space. Another example is the campaign to keep Tolka Park stadium as a sports facility. We need to get more girls and marginalised communities into sport. We heard from representatives of the Traveller community at the Joint Sub-Committee on Mental Health this week about the total lack of access to green space and sporting facilities that our Traveller children are experiencing. We need funding and good planning. Will the Government provide additional funding?
Comment on this
I agree with the comments the Deputy has made. A new round of sports capital funding will open for applications later in the year. I am not sure of exactly when. It will probably be in September or October. That will provide grants to sports clubs and sporting organisations to improve their facilities. When we are working out the criteria for that, we should take account of what the Deputy has said about facilities in urban areas where land is scarce, including facilities for women, girls, Travellers and other people who may not have access to facilities in the way they should.