Sports Funding
Seanad Éireann — 2026-06-24
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Alan Dillon (FG), Mayo

Again, I thank Senator Duffy for raising this important issue and acknowledge his contribution in seeking investment into Mayo.
The IIP, as outlined, was successful in its time. When the Irish economy had hit rock bottom, it generated significant investment when most needed, to the tune of over €1.2 billion. However, it has fulfilled its purpose, notwithstanding the recent announcements on Knockmore GAA, Westport United and, more locally to me, the Islandeady community development committee, which received €3.6 million. That is reflective of the amount of work they have put in.
The Minister for justice has outlined that there are no plans to reintroduce the scheme or replace it. Thankfully, the Minister for sport, Deputy Patrick O'Donovan, will soon launch the sports capital programme. A sum to the tune of over €250 million was allocated in the last round. We would hope a lot of that will be directed into sports facilities. The large-scale and regional sports programmes are very important. Our focus now is on ensuring sustainable investment in every parish, community, town and village right across the country. This can support communities and enterprise, create jobs and ensure our long-term economic growth.

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Record URI: https://data.oireachtas.ie/akn/ie/debateRecord/seanad/2026-06-24/debate/main
Retrieved: 2026-08-14T04:55:06+00:00
Sitting date: 2026-06-24