Catherine Martin (Dublin Rathdown, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I am answering this question on behalf of the Minister of State, who has to leave for another commitment.

On Friday, 3 May 2024, the participation nation outdoor fund was launched for the purchase and installation of barrier-free permanent sport equipment that can be placed on public land for community use. A portion of that fund, under the heading amuigh faoin spéir, is earmarked for biodiversity measures at sports facilities. I announced details of this funding last Thursday, 23 May. The fund will be overseen by my Department and administered by Sport Ireland, with applications open to the network of 29 LSPs. Engaging in physical exercise and connecting to nature are recognised as two key well-being measures. The fund encourages the partnerships to work with their local sports sector to develop initiatives that are of wide benefit and accessible to the community.

In line with the programme for Government target of reaching 60% overall participation in sport by 2027, the outdoor sports equipment stream is designed to spur physical activity in local community settings by supporting LSPs with the development of sport projects on publicly accessible land. A minimum of €70,000 will be available to each LSP for the purposes of installing barrier-free sports infrastructure on publicly accessible land. Indicative examples of eligible projects include table tennis tables, storage containers for a range of sports, 3x3 basketball courts, permanent nets for volleyball and golf putting greens.

The amuigh faoin spéir element of the fund will provide up to €25,000 to LSPs to support nature-connected projects at sports facilities that are open to community use. This was inspired by a club in my constituency, Naomh Ólaf GAA Club, which is an inspiration when it comes to leadership on biodiversity. The phrase "amuigh faoin spéir" comes from the club's own biodiversity charter, which has been in use for many years. The aim of the biodiversity measures is to promote the enhancement and protection of nature, with a specific focus on supporting the biodiversity of the surrounding environments on such land. Examples of possible projects include biodiversity pollinator-friendly planting, safe nesting sites for birds, bees and bats, the installation of biodiversity ponds, hedgerow and tree planting and rainwater planters. Deputy Ó Cathasaigh will know of the huge potential in this area. The Minister of State and I look forward to proposals from the LSPs that will enhance biodiversity, improve access to barrier-free physical activity and help to build happier and healthier communities.

See this speech in context