Local Fianna Fáil Councillor for Palmerstown-Fonthill, Shane Moynihan, has welcomed the decision by South Dublin County Council to consider writing down the outstanding fees for the 2019/2020 season and/or providing a reduction in the fees for the 2020/2021 season for sports clubs who use the Council’s pitches.
Cllr Moynihan said “For many sports clubs in Lucan, Palmerstown and Clondalkin, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has been not only to shut down training and playing, but also has severely curtailed incomes for our clubs, many of which are under financial pressure. This decision by the Council will provide some relief for clubs that are ultimately built on the goodwill of volunteers.”
South Dublin County Council allocates temporary lettings of its playing pitches every year to affiliated clubs and sporting organisations within the County. The allocation is carried out by way of a 9 month seasonal letting subject to specified conditions including the payment of a fee. The fees are in respect of over 160 pitches provided and maintained by South Dublin County Council. Clubs make various arrangements to pay their annual fees and are currently at stages which can be categorised as paid in full, partially paid or unpaid.
Cllr Moynihan added: “Many clubs have been in touch with me to see what supports they can access in light of the pandemic. For smaller clubs, this will make a real difference. I am also encouraged by the fact that the Council plans on reviewing its Community Grants Scheme which also provide welcome assistance to our many sports and community groups, the members of which have been to the forefront of assisting the vulnerable during the COVID-19 restrictions.”
“Our sports clubs are an extremely important part of the fabric of our community. I welcome all efforts to support them in practical ways, as many of their members, like others, have supported our most vulnerable in recent times”
