Thomas Gould (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein)
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915.To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if there is funding available for clubs that have their facilities destroyed by antisocial behaviour. [31542/24]

Thomas Gould (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein)
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916.To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a club in Cork (details supplied) had their facilities damaged. [31543/24]

Thomas Byrne (Meath East, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 915 and 916 together.

I am aware of the recent damage done to the facilities referred to by the Deputy. It is deeply disappointing to see this damage occur and I understand that An Garda Síochána have commenced an investigation into the incident.

The Sports Capital and Equipment Programme (SCEP) is the primary vehicle for Government support for the development of sports and recreation facilities and the purchase of non-personal sports equipment throughout the country.

While there is no specific funding available to assist where sports facilities are damaged on foot of anti-social behaviour, it should be noted that applications for funding to restore facilities can be made, under future rounds of the SCEP. In terms of protecting facilities from damage, it should also be noted that security fencing, CCTV systems, and pitch side fencing (where these are deemed essential) can all be funded under the SCEP.

On 9 May 2024, Minister Martin and I announced over €26 million in equipment-only grants under the latest round of the SCEP. The grants have been provisionally allocated to organisations across the country and to over fifty sports and activities. Further allocations, including those for capital works and capital works with an equipment component, will be announced by Autumn.

On 29 May 2024, Minister Martin and I announced that at least €250 million in funding will be available under the latest round of the SCEP. This record level of funding should mean a positive outcome for all valid applications.