My Department operates two capital funding programmes for sport, namely the Community Sport Facilities Fund (CSFF) and the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF). Sporting organisations can apply directly for CSFF funding when the fund is open to applications. Applications to the LSSIF must be made through either a National Governing Body of Sport or a Local Authority.
Over a quarter of a billion euro was allocated to 3,048 community sports clubs and facilities in 2024 from the 2023 round of the CSFF, representing the largest-ever investment in sports facilities in communities across Ireland. €6,825,214 million was allocated to 72 sporting projects in County Laois under the 2023 round. In line with previous rounds of the Fund, a review of the current funding round is being undertaken. I have asked my Department to prepare for a further round of the CSFF in 2026.
The LSSIF was established under the National Sports Policy, published in 2018, to provide Exchequer support for larger sports facility projects, typically those requiring investments greater than the maximum available under the CSFF. To date, €297.5 million in funding has been awarded under LSSIF 2018 and LSSIF 2024. In the 2018 round, Laois County Council received an allocation of €462,952 to renovate facilities at Portarlington Leisure Centre Swimming Pool. The project is expected to commence drawdown in 2026.
My current focus is on ensuring project delivery under the first two rounds of the LSSIF and this process will inform any decisions regarding the timing of a future round.
I have referred the Deputy's question to Sport Ireland for direct reply in relation to any capital funding programmes and grants for which sporting organisations in County Laois could be eligible to apply to Sport Ireland. I would ask the Deputy to inform my office if a reply is not received within 10 days.
