Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

This question relates to applications under the Sports Capital Programme 2012. The programme prioritises the needs of disadvantaged areas. Of the €31 million allocated under the 2012 programme, 41%, or €12.6 million, was allocated to projects in designated disadvantaged areas.

When the 2012 programme was advertised my Department issued a detailed guide to filling out the application form which set out the Department's minimum requirements. Regrettably, the applications referred to by the Deputy did not meet these requirements and hence were deemed invalid and could not be considered for funding.

The first application referred to was in respect of a project costing €1.05 million and did not include a feasibility study, which is a requirement under the programme for projects costing more than €700,000. In addition, the estimate provided by the quantity surveyor did not provide details of the works to be carried out. The other two applications were invalid for the following three reasons: the applicants did not provide the Department with evidence of title to the property to be used for the project; an acceptable quotation was not provided; and the application form did not include an original signature as required.

A letter setting out the reason the applications were deemed invalid has been sent to the applicants. Owing to the number of applications received, it is not possible for me to meet individual delegations. If the applicants require further information or clarification they should contact the sports capital programmes unit of my Department in Killarney.

The Sports Capital Programme 2012 is now closed and all moneys under this round have been allocated.

See this speech in context