Olwyn Enright (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 606: To ask the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if an application for assistance was made in the last number of years by a sports club (details supplied) in County Offaly; if the application was processed and moneys allocated to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10977/09]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

A letter issued to the nominated club contact on 9 August 2005 notifying the club in question of a provisional allocation of €25,000 under the 2005 programme towards dressing rooms/clubhouse development. Formal approval of a grant under the programme is dependent upon compliance with the terms and conditions set out in detail in the 2005 letter. A further written reminder to the club of its allocation under the programme issued on 7 November 2006. There is no record in my Department of the club in question having replied to the letter of provisional allocation or the subsequent reminder other than a telephoned acknowledgment of the 2006 letter.

It will not be possible to progress any further with this allocation until all relevant documentation is received. Naturally this allocation cannot be held over indefinitely and under the Guidelines, Terms and Conditions of the Sports Capital Programme, a "sunset clause" provision exists whereby my Department can fully or partially withdraw grants in the absence of satisfactory progress being made by the grantee, for any reason, in drawing down the grant.

The Department will write to the club shortly seeking an up to date position in relation to the grant in question and unless it is satisfied that sufficient progress has been made with the project the grant offer will be withdrawn.