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Deputy John Brassil.

SPORTS clubs across the county are missing out on important funding, according to Kerry Fianna Fáil TD John Brassil, who described the situation as “scandalous”.

Deputy Brassil claimed clubs are losing out because the Sports Minister has not announced the next round of the Sports Capital Grant.

Minister Shane Ross has confirmed that no decision has been taken on when the next round of the grant will be made, added Deputy Brassil.

The Kerry TD said: “It is scandalous that there has been no Sports Capital Grant announcement for 2016. Even if a decision is made in the next few months, the fact of the matter is no money will be drawn down at all this year. This money is extremely important for sports clubs and communities across the country with many depending on this funding to buy new equipment and upgrade and improve facilities."

Deputy Brassil added: “There appears to be no credible reason as to why this year’s announcement has not been made, but it is not acceptable that clubs across Co Kerry are being left high and dry. The last round of applications for the scheme was in 2015 and an announcement for this year is long overdue. I am worried by Minister Ross’ lax attitude, and particularly his comment that “no decision has been taken on the timing of the next rounds of the SCP.”

This scheme “should not be allowed to fall off the Minister’s agenda”, added Deputy Brassil. “It is a vital resource for communities the length and breadth of the country, who are now missing out on essential funding. Minister Ross needs to address this issue without delay and announce the next round of applications,” he said.
 

 
Deputy John Brassil.