Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister, the Minister of State and the officials for their comments. Before I open up the discussion I want to say that I acknowledge the tremendous work the Department, the Minister and the Minister of State are doing. The transparency and accountability are hugely important. The appeals process is extremely welcome because people can inadvertently forget to tick a box, as does happen, and I appreciate that this process gives an opportunity to address that.

I would like to make two points. I am appreciate that the Minister did not necessarily mention it today, but I am aware that in his reply he can talk about weighting for disadvantaged areas, particularly areas which Pobal have designated as areas of significant economic disadvantage. He can also talk about how he deals with that and makes sure that money gets to communities which are disadvantaged economically. I have two other points. One is on the question of open access to the facilities of clubs which receive a lot of money. Are they available to other groups which might be able to use them, even if they are not necessarily part of that organisation? If so, when? In other words, if we are investing significant funds, people living the area should be able to use them if at all possible.

I do not know if other members have been lobbied on this, but we have a very active bridge club in Drogheda. Deputy Munster will know about this. There are recreational and social amenities which require some funding. Thousands of people play bridge and yet these clubs do not qualify for any grant in respect of sport and recreation amenities. It would be helpful if that could be looked at in the future. I particularly refer to clubs which have raised significant amounts of money to complete buildings to meet their requirements. A huge number of people are involved. Thousands of people play bridge and they would be very anxious to be admitted into some scheme in order to get some benefit.

I will open discussion to the floor. I call on Deputy O'Keeffe.