Erin McGreehan (Louth, Fianna Fail)

It is always great to have an opportunity to discuss the positive impact of Government investment in sport, particularly in Louth. Nobody can dispute the value of sports capital programmes, the large-scale sports infrastructure fund and the major events programme. They have transformed opportunities and outlooks across the country.

In 2024, nearly €7 million was awarded to clubs and organisations across Louth, improving facilities and opportunities but most of all creating an ambition in our sports people right around the county to achieve and do the best they can. Look at Kate O'Connor, our local trailblazer, and what can be achieved in a sport that is underfunded. However, soon, with sports capital funding, she will have a choice of tracks to train on when she is home in County Louth. She is always welcome to my local club, Glenmuir FC's facilities, which is getting an extra two-lane extension on the track and club development because of sports capital.

I also have to mention the fact Louth has been waiting decades for a county stadium. The Minister of State will know this project very well. This project is not simply a GAA ground; it is a regional infrastructure that will serve schools, clubs and communities right across the north east. It is about a pride of place, our love of sport and providing a place that is fitting not only for our ladies, who are all-Ireland champions, but also our senior men's team, who are Leinster champions. It will be a facility to deliver much more. Louth GAA made a successful application under the large-scale infrastructure fund, yet we will find ourselves in limbo on a reserved list or hopeful list - we do not know what it is. If applicants fail to draw down the funding, will Louth GAA have the ability and opportunity to draw down that funding, which it deserves because it has made a rightful application?

When can the people of Louth expect the support for the funding? It will be the only stadium built from scratch. The Minister of State witnessed this himself when he was there recently. Our clubs have fundraised and Croke Park supported them. We need the Government funding to get past this critical point in development. The support now would mean it would be delivered in full as opposed to in phases. We have a dream in Louth for our home football and none of us will rest until it is realised.

I also want to ask about the commitment in the programme for Government on access to sport for schools. For example, De La Salle College and St. Louis Secondary School have plans for their sports development and facilities but they are blocked out of the system.

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