Mayo club allocated €2.8m. for ground development project

Westport United FC has secured funding of €2.8 million for phase two development work on their facility at United Park in the town.

The announcement has been made by local TD Michael Ring at a presentation at Westport Town Hall Theatre.

It's the biggest ever State funding allocation to a sporting organisation in Mayo, surpassing the €2.2 million approved for the GAA Centre of Excellence at Bekan some years ago.

The funding was secured through the Department of Justice's immigrant investor programme.

The money will help to transform the grounds into one of the finest community facilities in the country.

It will include two international-size 4G astroturf pitches, a third grass pitch and an extension to the clubhouse with a gymnasium and other facilities at a total cost of €3.3 million.

Over €400,000 will be raised locally for a project on which in excess of €1 million has already been invested.

Deputy Michael Ring stated: “The Immigration Investor Programme was first introduced by Government in 2012.

"It is managed by the Department of Justice. The IIP operates across Europe (EEA) with similar schemes all over the world.

"The IIP allows vetted and approved individuals outside Europe to make philanthropic donations to a project which is of benefit the public at large.

“I was absolutely delighted to be able to announce this significant funding allocation for Westport United Football Club.

"I wish to compliment and thank the Chairman of Westport United, Mr. Stephen Duffy, Peter Flynn, Michael Horan and also everybody in the Westport United Community Soccer Limited who put their heart and soul in to securing this funding for Westport United.

"The amount of work, effort and commitment that went in to this was phenomenal. It is fantastic news for the town, county and country that this funding was secured.

“Over €400,000 will have to be raised locally for the project.

"I call on the corporate sector to come in behind this investment and for companies to give any support they can to help Westport United to raise the €400,000 to allow them to complete phase two."

Local Councillor Brendan Mulroy described it as a magnificent boost for the local community.

"It's a great day for Westport and well done to all involved in securing the funding," he added.

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