Dormant Account Funding Allocation 2024 Announced
Date: 10-09-2024
*Press Release 10th September 2024
€116,100 2024 Dormant Account Funding allocated to Mayo Sports Partnership Projects by Minister Martin and Minister Byrne
More than €5m in Dormant Accounts Funding is to be awarded to Local Sports Partnerships and Active Disability Ireland in 2024, as announced by the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin, and the Minister of State for Sport, Physical Education and the Gaeltacht, Thomas Byrne.
Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin said: “Today's announcement of the Dormant Accounts Fund allocation will support a range of excellent work across the country and is a testament to our commitment to fostering inclusivity and well-being through sports and physical activities.
“This funding will empower innovative projects that support volunteers in disadvantaged areas, promote women's participation in sports, and provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities. By championing a ‘Sport for All’ ethos, we aim to create a healthier and more active Ireland for everyone.”
The Dormant Accounts Funding allows unclaimed funds from accounts in credit institutions in Ireland to be utilised for projects focused on overcoming the barriers and challenges to participation in sport for those who are economically or educationally disadvantaged, or those affected by a disability.
Minister of State for Sport, Physical Education and the Gaeltacht Thomas Byrne said: “The Olympics and Paralympics have provided us with so many memorable sporting moments over the last few weeks but ultimately, involvement in sport begins at the grassroots and that is why it is so important for us to support the valuable work of our Local Sports Partnerships and Active Disability Ireland. Everyone, of every ability, should enjoy the right to participate in sport and this €5 million allocation from the Dormant Accounts Fund represents a significant milestone in our efforts to make sport accessible to all members of our community.
The areas of focus include community sports and physical activity hubs, education and training hubs with volunteer supports as a priority and sports measures for disadvantaged communities to support the National Sports Policy and National Physical Activity Plan.
Recognising the invaluable contributions of volunteers in Irish sport, funding is allocated to provide volunteer supports aligned with the key actions of the Volunteering in Sport Policy.
Funding will be allocated to projects that empower volunteers, including youth leadership training, coaching and development programmes and targeted training for volunteers who are from or who work in disadvantaged areas and/or with people with disabilities.
This funding is also delivering key objectives from the Dormant Accounts Fund Action Plan for 2024, which is being overseen by the Minister of State for Rural and Community Development, Joe O’Brien, under the Dormant Accounts (Amendment) Act 2012.
Joe O’Brien, Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development, said: “The Dormant Accounts Fund allocation announced today is a crucial investment in our communities, particularly in rural and disadvantaged areas.
“This funding will support a range of projects designed to promote physical activity and sports for all, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background or ability, has the opportunity to participate.”
Dr Úna May, CEO of Sport Ireland, said: “We are very happy to announce this investment package of €5.1m as part of our continuing commitment to promoting inclusivity and accessibility in sports and physical activities across Ireland.
“This funding is all about bridging gaps, ensuring everyone can lead active, healthier lives regardless of their background.”
Mayo Sports Partnership Head Charlie Lambert added: “ This Dormant Account funding will help us to deliver much needed support in our local communities, clubs and to hard to reach groups such as teenage girls, people with a disability, new communities etc”
“ I would like to thank all our local representatives at local and national level who continue to advocate on our behalf”
To view full listing of allocations see HERE