Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy is correct that having €53 million in grant aid outstanding makes it difficult for me to obtain funding from the Government for further rounds. I agree with her that this funding has been a lifeline for sports organisations. There was no scheme in place from 2008 to 2012. The new scheme introduced last year worked well.

On the moneys not yet drawn down, I appeal to those clubs and organisations countrywide that have been approved to receive grant aid and are not in a position to use it to communicate with the Department in that regard because in so doing they are not precluded from making future applications. Many organisations granted funding in the past were unable to secure matching funding because projects were too large. However, clubs are now more realistic.

Many are of the opinion that the staff complement in the sports section in Killarney is huge, but that is not true. There are only a small number of staff in the section and they work very hard. I compliment them on the excellent work they are doing and have great confidence in them. Following up on issues with clubs is very time consuming.

On the last found of funding, clubs and organisations approved to receive grant aid have been given two years from the date of approval - which runs to next January - within which to draw down the funding. Those clubs that do not draw down the funding by that date will have it withdrawn from them. Also, for those clubs undertaking extensive projects, a time extension may be granted. Where no work is done and funding has not been drawn down, it will be withdrawn. In the meantime my officials will examine how the €53 million outstanding can be reduced.

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