GAA clubs across Sligo, Leitrim and Roscommon will be more accessible to the community due to a
funding boost from Healthy Ireland, Minister Frank Feighan has announced.
Minister Feighan was speaking in relation to the funding of €800,000 which will be focused on
enhancing walking tracks to ensure they are more accessible to those with mobility issues, older
persons, and wheelchair users.
Feighan said: “This grant is transformative and will encourage people to utilise the fantastic facilities
right on their doorstep. I encourage all GAA clubs across Leitrim Roscommon and Sligo to apply if
eligible.
“As Minister of State with responsibility for Public Health, Well Being and National Drugs Strategy, I
believe this will have a positive impact in our communities”
“The boost will also allow for the upgrading or installation of lighting, designed to prolong the hours of
usage which will prove essential during this cold and dark winter.
“Fine Gael is committed to delivering stronger, safer communities across Ireland. It is essential that
people have access to viable walking infrastructure.
“Our GAA club is at the heart of the locality and generates a real sense of community spirit. GAA’s
Ireland Lights Up typically captures this spirt and is a tradition for many.
“The initiative will run in January/February 2023 in conjunction with RTÉ’s ‘Operation Transformation’. I
look forward to our community participation and would encourage people to sign up and get involved.
“Accessibility and safety are at the core of this upgrade and underpins the work being conducted by
Healthy Ireland. The entire community will have access to this facility, and will reap the health and
wellbeing benefits,” concluded Minister Feighan.
Healthy Ireland grant details:
The funding will be determined via a competitive application process. It is open to all GAA, LGFA, and
Camogie clubs in the 26 counties with an existing walking track/amenity. GAA/LGFA/Camogie clubs
that use the same facilities are required to submit a joint application. Only one application per club
allowed.
The Healthy Ireland grant funding may be used to:
- Upgrade existing walking track surfaces
- Improve access/usability for persons with mobility issues
- Install/upgrade to LED lighting along existing walking track route
- Upgrade/maintain existing walking track boundaries
Funding is not applicable for:
- Development of new walking tracks
- Floodlighting for pitches that also lights walking tracks (or sections thereof)
A club may apply for one of the grant funding amounts below:
- Up to €10,000
- Up to €25,000
- Up to €50,000