392. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport when the next round of the Sports Capital Programme will open for applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46988/26]

In line with previous rounds of the CSFF, I have asked my Department to prepare for a further round of the CSFF in 2026 which I expect to open soon. It is anticipated that the next CSFF round will particularly target areas and sports that have been under-invested in over the years.

The Department is currently collating feedback from sporting clubs and organisations and this provides valuable input to our ongoing preparations for the next round. New guidelines will be published in advance of the opening of the next round which will include eligibility and likely assessment criteria for the next round. My aim is to encourage a broad range of applicants and to assist in this regard by simplifying the application process and guide and carrying out a wide-reaching communications and engagement campaign.