SDLP Foyle MLA Mark H Durkan
It is hoped that the scheme which opened at the beginning of December 2020, will have issued all awards by mid-March 2021.
Said the Foyle MLA: “The significant interest garnered by the Sports Sustainability Fund garnered is testament to the acute need within the Sports Sector.
“The Sector has suffered massive losses as a result of the ongoing pandemic and sporting organisations to date, have been left in limbo with no indication as to when they can return to normal practice.
“These awards will no doubt provide a lifeline for many clubs however it is lamentable that it has taken almost 3 months since the opening of this scheme, to get much needed financial support into the hands of these organisations.
“Establishing a long-term recovery plan for the Sport Sector is crucial to ensure its survival in the months ahead.
“Sporting clubs have played and will continue to play a vital role in terms of helping people reintegrate into society.
“The multitude of benefits sport brings not just to our economy but to people’s physical and mental health, will be immensely important going forward.
“The sporting fraternity have been a lifeline in our communities throughout this crisis, it is important that support is returned to ensure the Sector’s recovery and sustainability as we emerge from the COVID pandemic.”
Tags: