Alan Dillon (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I certainly welcome that initiative. I have highlighted the lack of provision of sporting facilities in the primary and secondary school environment to the Minister for Education. I welcome the expansion of the sports capital and equipment programme that allows schools to make applications in this regard. While physical education is a senior cycle subject, certain schools are using facilities that are not in close proximity to the school, which causes major issues and concern. I would like to see this programme expanded and more collaboration between the Department and the Department of Education to ensure that we provide adequate funding in this regard. There is funding in the NDP, but it needs to be targeted and specific to school environments and made more accessible to school management and principals.

The Minister of State made reference to initial delays, and allowing a number of weeks for clubs to respond, in respect of the sports capital and equipment programme. Were clubs that were not successful in being allocated funding for sporting equipment communicated with? Will there be an opportunity for them to reapply in future in order to secure funding?