This week, several sports in Ireland received funding from the Irish Government to improve their infrastructure projects.
The Large Scale Sports Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF) 2024, worth €173 million in grants for 35 of 90 applicants, was awarded this week.
Nine of the projects are classified as multisport, with €67.7 million allocated primarily to GAA facilities.
This €173 million allocation follows earlier announcements this year, which included €26 million for sports equipment and €230 million under the Community Sport Facilities Fund, bringing the total investment in sports capital and recreation for 2024 to €429 million.
The LSSIF funding aims to enhance sports participation and infrastructure across Ireland, focusing on inclusivity, sustainability, and equal access to sports facilities for men and women.
The funded sports include rugby, GAA, soccer, swimming, basketball, athletics, and others.
The government has also introduced a new “use it or lose it” clause, ensuring that if no part of a grant is drawn down within 2-3 years, the funds may be reallocated.
Just announced: €173m invested in sports infrastructure across Ireland.
This record-breaking investment under the Large-Scale Sports Infrastructure Fund supports over 35 projects nationwide, strengthening our commitment to better sports facilities and inclusivity in sport. pic.twitter.com/fAtWIzIwqB
— Catherine Martin TD (@cathmartingreen) November 4, 2024
In football, Bohemians and Dublin City Council, along with Sligo Rovers, received €24.7 million and €16.4 million, respectively. The GAA, in collaboration with the LGFA and Camogie, secured €7 million for a Centre of Excellence at Spawell, Dublin. However, this funding only covers part of the cost, and work will be phased. Similar partial funding applies to GAA projects in Kildare, Wexford, Meath, Kerry, and Galway, with €5.5 million and €3.2 million granted to Roscommon and Clare.
Rugby received less funding this round, with Killarney RFC awarded €750,000. Swimming projects received €8.1 million for a new 25-meter pool in Edenderry, Co. Offaly. Basketball's National Stadium redevelopment in Tallaght and Drogheda United’s football stadium are on the reserve list, with high chances of future funding.
Athletics secured €7 million for the redevelopment of Morton Stadium in partnership with DCU, while new athletic tracks will be built in Mallow, Mayo, Shannonside, and Seafield. €1 million was also allocated for an athletics dome in Trim.
At the announcement, Minister Martin said, “The advantages of engaging in sports, regardless of age, are profound, both mentally and physically. To meet our ambitious goals of increasing participation in sports, it is essential to have facilities like these.
“The Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund plays a crucial role in our strategy to enhance physical activity and well-being among the population. By investing in these significant projects, we are ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background or ability, has access to high-quality sports facilities. This funding will help to create a legacy of sporting excellence in Ireland, inspiring future generations to engage in physical activity and pursue their sporting ambitions."
The full list and breakdown can be read here.
