€388,415 in funding has been announced or 19 clubs across Laois with the ‘Sports Capital and Equipment fund’.
The announcement, which was made this morning, will benefit sports organisations across the county.
This is part of over €26 million in equipment grants, under the latest round of the nationwide funding programme which were announced by Ministers Catherine Martin and Thomas Byrne.
Laois have received 1.4% of the entire national budget despite taking up 6% of the population of the country outside of Dublin.
The fund provides support to clubs to refurbish sports facilities and provide funds for entirely new equipment.
Top beneficiaries of the grants are Banríon Gaels Camogie Club who received €65,000 for sports equipment, Portlaoise Golf Club who received €40,000 for a robotic auto mower and Laois Hockey Club receiving €65,806 to create a hockey culture in Laois.
Other clubs who have also received substantial grants are Mountrath Golf Club, Portlaoise Golf Club, Kilcavan Gaa, Clonad Gaa, Crettyard Utd, Abbeyleix afc, Grange Utd, Castletown Gaa, Laois Archery, Laois Camogie, Laois Sports Partnership, Piranha Swim Club, Portlaoise Badminton Club, St. Conleth’s LGFC, Wolfhill Athletic Football Club, Woodenbridge Paddlers Association.
While the grants do not cover the full cost the funds awarded to these entities represent a very high proportion of the cost of the equipment in question.
A further announcement will be made soon regarding the Capital Projects and the Capital and Equipment Projects as applications for those supports are currently being reviewed.
Laois TD Sean Fleming said: “Thanks to the committed volunteers in all the clubs and organisations in Laois who work very hard in their communities to provide wonderful amenities and sporting facilities right on our doorsteps”.
He concluded his announcement by urging people of all ages to be involved in sports and activities for its physical and mental benefits.
Deputy Charlie Flanagan said: “I am delighted that the funding announced today is going to benefit a range of sports clubs in Laois. Between them they will receive €388,415.
“Active engagement in sports not only helps keep young people healthy, but also builds confidence, independence and promotes team building.
“I know that the Laois clubs and organisations receiving this funding today will make great use of it to the benefit of local communities.
“Further allocations under the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme, including those for capital works, and capital works tied with an equipment component, will be announced at a later date.
“I look forward to continued success for all of our local clubs and sporting organisations.”
Full list of clubs and amounts: Equipment Grant Allocations 2024
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