Deadline looms for Mayo applications to Sports Energy Support Scheme
In 2022, the government provided an additional investment of €35 million to support sporting organisations with the rising energy costs associated with the provision of sport, such as indoor activity in winter, the provision of outdoor floodlighting, etc.
To date, €19 million has been distributed to Sport Ireland-recognised National Governing Bodies of Sport.
Phase two of the scheme will target community-owned sports facilities which do not currently qualify for TBESS or other government support schemes through DRCD, local authorities, etc. Mayo Sports Partnership are now seeking expressions of interest from facilities that qualify under this phase – but the closing date for expressions of interest is today (Wednesday, May 24) at 5 p.m.
Clubs or facilities affiliated to Sport Ireland-recognised National Governing Bodies should access support directly through their NGB.
General cost of living increases such as rising costs in accommodation, rent, rates or labour costs are not eligible. Fuel costs associated with machinery, vehicles, travel or transport do not qualify. Full eligibility details and expression of interest form can be found here.
The chairperson of Mayo Sports Partnership, Councillor Michael Loftus, welcomed this support for local community facilities.
He said: “Local community centres and facilities run by community councils across Mayo play such a massive role in supporting the health and wellbeing of all members of the community. The costs of running these facilities have increased massively in recent times, and with the help of government funding we hope to be able to help them in some small way.”
Mayo Sports Partnership head Charlie Lambert added: “Many Mayo Sports Partnership and recreational sport programmes take place in these centres and unfortunately they may not have received badly-needed government support until now.
“In a rural county like Mayo, it's vital that these community activity hubs are supported.”
For more information, contact Mayo Sports Partnership on (094) 9064360 or mayosportspartnership@mayococo.ie.