Six sports clubs in Donegal have been allocated grants of €50,000 to improve their facilities.
Upgrades are on the way for CLG Chloich Cheann Fhaola, Castlefin Celtic FC, Glenswilly CLG, CLG Malainn, CLG Ghleann Fhinne and Gleneely Colts FC.
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Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD announced the funding as part of Our Rural Future, the Government’s strategic five-year rural development plan.
Minister Humphreys said: “This funding is targeted specifically at supporting clubs in rural communities and not surprisingly the vast majority of successful projects are from local GAA clubs. The GAA is at the heart of rural parishes across the country, instilling a strong sense of pride of place, community and belonging in young and old.
“While many of the successful projects are focused on improving playing and training facilities, I also want to improve the experience for local supporters and spectators. For this reason, I put a particular focus on the upgrade of Spectator Stands so that further seating and shelter can be provided to ensure that older people can enjoy games in comfort. Similarly, some projects focus on upgrading local clubhouses and improving access for people with disabilities and mobility issues.”
Letterkenny Cllr Jimmy Kavanagh said: “Fine Gael is committed to delivering for rural Ireland and ensuring stronger, safer communities and this funding will go a long way in supporting rural communities not only in Donegal but across Ireland.
“Volunteers and members of local sports clubs are essential to making our local communities a better place and I’m delighted that Minister Heather Humphreys has announced this funding.
“Supporters across Ireland will also majorly benefit from this funding, thanks to a particular focus on the upgrade of Spectator Stands so that further seating and shelter can be provided to ensure that everyone can enjoy the games.”
Cllr Donal ‘Mandy’ Kelly welcomed the announcement for his local area of Glenswilly and said: “This is the first time that CLÁR Funding has ever been secured in this or local community. I’m delighted for the Club and the Community as a whole. This €50,000 will help upgrade and improve the track in the club and be of great benefit to all ages.
I want to thank the Club for trusting in me in putting a strong application forward and I also want to thank the team within Donegal County Council for working with me when all advice and help was needed.”
