Fine Gael candidate in the upcoming Dublin Mid-West bye election, Cllr Emer Higgins, has said that 12 sports clubs in Dublin Mid-West are to receive €770,624 in Government funding through the Sports Capital Grant. Cllr Higgins said: “I am delighted that the funding announced recently is going to benefit 12 clubs in Dublin Mid-West. Between them they will receive €770,624. Active engagement in sports not only helps keep young people healthy, but also builds confidence, independence and promotes team building. “This important Government funding will greatly benefit sports clubs across Dublin and the rest of the country over the coming year. The Sports Capital Programme was re-instated by Fine Gael in 2012, after it was cut by Fianna Fáil in the wake of the economic crash. It is a real lifeline for teams, clubs and organisations here in our local area.”
Cllr Higgins was speaking as the successful applications under the Sports Capital Projects (SCP) were announced by Minister of State with special responsibility for Tourism and Sport, Brendan Griffin and Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross. Cllr Higgins continued: “The clubs and projects in Dublin Mid-West to benefit are: “Slade Valley Golf Club; Lucan Athletic Track (SDCC); Pitch 13 Griffeen Valley Park (SDCC); Clondalkin Cricket Club; Coláiste Chillian; St ,Finian’s GAA; St Francis Football Club; Beech Park Golf Club; Commercials Hurling Club; Lucan Golf Club; Lucan Pitch and Putt Club; and Peamount United.
“I know that the local clubs and organisations receiving this funding today will make great use of it to the benefit of local communities. “It is so important to encourage people to play sport. Not only is it good for their physical health but it benefits their mental health too. Supporting sports teams, clubs and organisations is also tantamount to supporting community engagement, and helps to foster strong community spirit. “Investment in sport is also a really worthwhile policy objective for Government from a health point of view. Society reaps the rewards through improved health of the population. This is more important than ever with the rise in obesity. “I look forward to continued success for all of our local clubs and sporting organisations,” said Cllr Higgins.
