The allocations will be used for projects such as new spectator stands, astro-turf facilities, upgrades of clubhouses and changing facilities, ramps and other accessibility measures for those with mobility issues, floodlights, and community amenities such as walking tracks. 

A new fund of almost €5 million is to be distributed among 113 sports clubs located in rural areas around the country.

The funding is being provided as part of Our Rural Future, the Government’s strategic five-year rural development plan. The successful applicants will receive grants of up to €50,000.

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys said: “This funding is targeted specifically at supporting clubs in rural communities, and not surprisingly the vast majority of successful projects are from local GAA clubs. The GAA is at the heart of rural parishes across the country, instilling a strong sense of pride of place, community and belonging in young and old.

“While many of the successful projects are focused on improving playing and training facilities, I also want to improve the experience for local supporters and spectators. For this reason, I put a particular focus on the upgrade of spectator stands so that further seating and shelter can be provided to ensure that older people can enjoy games in comfort. Similarly, some projects focus on upgrading local clubhouses and improving access for people with disabilities and mobility issues.” 

The successful projects include:

  • Doheny GAA Club, Co Cork: Provision of Sam Maguire Spectator Stand – €50,000
  • Garryhill Handball Club, Co Carlow: Repair, resurfacing and weatherproofing of handball alley – €40,500
  • Gneeveguilla GAA, Co Kerry: Install an access lift in clubhouse – €32,378
  • Ballinaglera GAA, Co Leitrim: Construction of walking trail around the grounds and upgrade of spectator stand – €38,364
  • Elphin GAA Club, Co Roscommon: New spectator stand – €50,000
  • Michael Cusack GAA Club, Co Clare: Surfacing of walking track – €50,000
  • Cuchulainn Gaels GAC, Co Louth: Construction of accessible changing rooms to include toilets and showers – €44,910
  • St Patrick’s GAA, Co Sligo: Construct extension to house new gym – €45,000
  • Multyfarnham GAA, Co Westmeath: Installation of all-weather artificial playing surface astro turf – €50,000
  • St Brendan’s GAA, Ballygar, Co Galway: Lighting of walkway around community pitches – €50,000
  • Drumgoon Éire Óg GAA, Co Cavan: Upgrade of stand/covered seating area
  • Ballylanders AFC, Co Limerick: Refurbishment of clubhouse interior – €50,000
  • Knockmore GAA, Co Mayo: Develop a community playground – €49,950
  • Ballinlough GFC, Co Meath: Install a wheelchair platform lift in community centre

 The full list of 113 successful sports projects under CLÁR Measure 1 is available here