There's fantastic news for Carlow today as my colleague, Minister for Sport Catherine Martin, has announced that a record €4.2 million under the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund has been allocated for the development of a Water Hub Activity Centre for Carlow.
The facility will include a training and fitness room, changing facilities and boat equipment units, along with storage and amenities for rowing and dragon boats, and youth services.
Carlow's Water Hub Activity Centre is one of 35 projects around the country to receive funding in this second round of allocations under the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund, with the total amount of grants awarded today topping €173 million. This follows earlier announcements this year, which included €26 million for sports equipment and €230 million under the Community Sport Facilities Fund, bringing the total investment in sports capital and recreation for 2024 to a record €429 million.
The Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund plays a crucial role in the government’s strategy to increase participation in sport and enhance physical activity and well-being among the population, and it includes a new “use it or lose it” rule. To ensure the most effective spend of these resources, eligible projects were prioritised according to their ability to execute the project within a specified timeframe. Projects also had to demonstrate their potential to enhance sports participation, prioritise sustainability, and offer equitable access for both men and women.
All of which makes this €4.2 million funding for a Water Hub Activity Centre a gamechanger for sports participation in Carlow and fantastic news for the town. By investing in significant projects and facilities for the town we’re helping to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background or ability, has access to high-quality sports facilities.
It's fitting that in a year marked by Olympic and other success for Irish athletes, we’ve seen record investment in sports equipment and facilities for both Carlow and Kilkenny this year. This funding will help to create a legacy of sporting excellence for our counties, inspiring more people to engage in physical activity and pursue their sporting ambitions.
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