Sports capital grants to be announced in coming fortnight, says Offaly TD

Offaly TD Tony McCormack said he expects successful allocations under the latest round of the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme to be announced within the next two weeks.

The announcement of the grants will be a big moment for sporting clubs and organisations in Offaly and throughout the country, and will help determine whether planned improvements to facilities and infrastructure can proceed.

Deputy McCormack said he was aware of the "significant time and effort" invested by local clubs in applications for funding support, with many anxiously awaiting confirmation of the successful projects.

"There has been huge interest across Offaly in this latest round of Sports Capital funding, and I now expect that successful allocations will be announced within the next fortnight," said the Fianna Fáil TD.

"Clubs throughout the county have invested enormous time and effort into their applications and there will be great anticipation as the announcement approaches. I know first-hand the amount of work that volunteers have put into preparing proposals over recent months."

The Sports Capital and Equipment Programme provides vital funding to clubs and community organisations for the development of sporting facilities and the purchase of equipment.

Deputy McCormack said the programme had delivered major benefits to communities throughout Offaly over many years.

"From GAA clubs and soccer teams to rugby clubs, athletics clubs and community organisations, groups across Offaly have invested enormous time and effort into these applications.

"Many clubs are hoping to upgrade facilities, improve accessibility and invest in equipment, and there will be huge excitement as the announcement draws closer.

"Whether it is improving pitches, upgrading clubhouses, enhancing accessibility or purchasing equipment, Sports Capital grants have played a hugely important role in supporting clubs across our county."

The Offaly TD said that, for many organisations, the funding will determine whether long-planned projects can finally move ahead.

"For many clubs, this funding will determine whether long-planned projects can finally become a reality. Across Offaly, organisations are hoping to improve facilities, purchase equipment and create better opportunities for people of all ages to participate in sport.

"Offaly has a proud sporting tradition and some of the best volunteers in the country.... and I look forward to seeing clubs throughout the county benefit from this latest round of investment," he added.