Ensuring our clubs and organisations are properly funded is key to encouraging participation in sports
 
Cork South Central Fine Gael TD, Jerry Buttimer, has welcomed the announcement of a €30 million sports capital grant which has been announced by Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, Michael Ring TD, in the latest round of the funding programme.
 
“I welcome the announcement by Minister Ring that he is making €30 million available as part of the sports capital grant programme. This is the first time in four years that sports capital funding has been made available. I have lobbied the Minister to re-open the sports capital programme so I am delighted with today’s announcement as this funding will support the development of sports facilities and the purchase of sports equipment for sporting clubs and organisations.
 
“Having modern facilities and proper equipment is an essential element in encouraging more people to take part in sport.  If we are to counter the problems of obesity and inactivity we need to ensure that the facilities available for those who choose to take part in physical activities are adequate.
 
“The Government has taken steps to make this round of funding more accessible than in previous years, with grants being open to more clubs and groups than ever before.  The strict requirement on landownership has been relaxed and Minister Ring has decided that clubs that don’t own their own land will now be able to apply for grants of up to €25,000 to upgrade facilities.
 
“The Government has also recognised the fundraising difficulties sports organisations can face. The minimum amount of ‘matching funding’ which clubs and organisations will need to provide themselves in order to apply for a grant has been halved from the previous round of the programme in 2008.  The matching funding required is now only 15%. For groups in CLÁR areas, this is reduced to a minimum of 10% and for those in RAPID areas it is reduced to a minimum of 5% of the project cost.
 
“The deadline for online applications is Friday, 1st June and for paper applications it is Friday 11th May.  I would encourage all clubs and organisations thinking of applying to get their application in early so that their members can benefit from this round of funding.”

Posted under Infastructure, National Work, Sport, Youth

On the night of Saturday 31 March 2012 west bound traffic on the South Ring Road will be diverted at the Bandon/Sarsfield road works while a new water mains is installed.
 
For more information on the latest update click here.

Posted under Carrigaline, Cork City, Douglas, Infastructure, South Central, South West, Transport

Cork South Central Fine Gael TD Jerry Buttimer has welcomed the approval of €84 million of works for improved sewage infrastructure in the Cork Lower Harbour area.  Deputy Buttimer was commenting after approval for the scheme was granted by Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Phil Hogan, TD.
 
“The decision by the Minister for the Environment will deliver a modern sewerage infrastructure for Cork Lower Harbour area.  This is a welcome proposal which will benefit local residents and businesses.
 
“€84 million is a significant investment which will deliver a comprehensive solution to the collection, treatment and disposal of wastewater.  Over the last number of years there has been a large volume of development, residential and commercial, in the area, it is essential that our wastewater disposal systems are sufficient to cope with the increased discharge.
 
“Cork Harbour is an important asset for business and tourism, it is vital that we make sufficient investment to protect this natural resource.  This Minister’s decision will ensure that the infrastructure meets modern environmental and legislative requirements, preserving and improving the harbour environment.
 
“Now that the funding has been approved it is critical that this project is progressed as quickly as possible.  The tendering process should begin as soon as the contract documents are ready.  It is important that this significant new investment delivers improved treatment facilities which will benefit all those who live and work around the harbour and also those who use it as a place of recreation.”

Posted under Carrigaline, Cork, Douglas, Environment, Infastructure