Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael)

That is an important question and it is why there is a need for a sports strategy. Previously, the money was either spent under the influence of the Minister or distributed to wealthy clubs that could provide matching funding. Deputy Ring is anxious that the level of matching funding required be lowered in order that clubs throughout the country can avail of this. The wealthier clubs got the money, as well as organisations in the area the Minister with responsibility for sport happened to represent. That was wrong, and that is why we need a national strategy and a proper audit. We must distribute the money fairly throughout the country in order that the whole country can benefit.

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