Frank Feighan (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State, and I look forward to the application process. He said that the Government's fundamental aim in its national sports policy is to increase the levels of participation in sport and physical activity across the population. This has a specific focus on less represented groups, including women and girls. A lot of good progress has been made in Sligo, and I want to pay tribute to the women's and men's teams, and the many youth teams there.

We have seen a lot of funding going around the country, and I am delighted that the Minister of State mentioned playing fields in Meath, Walsh Park in Waterford, the regional athletics hub in Limerick, Connaught Rugby and St. Conleth's Park GAA ground. However, I am interested in Sligo, the west and north west, and I believe this project is and will be of huge benefit not just to Sligo but to the north west.

I pay tribute to all the supporters, players, volunteers, the wider community and especially the committee there. They are very professional, and I think the Cathaoirleach Gníomhach understands that. They would have a very professional application in because they believe they are of the community. I know, having served in the Department, that it wants good governance and data, and Sligo Rovers has that in abundance. I look forward to the opening of the LSSIF, and I also look forward to Sligo being successful when this is out.

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