Carlow Sports Partnership is thrilled to announce the allocation of €136,600 from the Dormant Accounts Fund to support a wide range of community sports and physical activity projects. This funding, part of a broader national investment of over €5 million, was announced by Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media Catherine Martin, and Minister of State for Sport, Physical Education and the Gaeltacht Thomas Byrne. It will be instrumental in promoting inclusivity, volunteerism, and physical activity in Carlow. 

National Funding Announcement 

The announcement forms part of the Dormant Accounts Fund’s 2024 allocation, which targets Local Sports Partnerships (LSPs) and organisations like Active Disability Ireland. The goal is to overcome barriers to participation in sport and physical activity, particularly for those who are economically or educationally disadvantaged, or affected by a disability. 

Minister Catherine Martin commented on the national funding programme, stating: 

“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.”
 

Carlow’s Share of the Dormant Accounts Fund 

Carlow Sports Partnership has been awarded €136,600, with the funding set to be distributed across several key initiatives aimed at making sport and physical activity accessible to all: 

Hubs  Training & Education  Volunteer Supports  Sports Inclusion Disability Projects  Her Moves  Equality, Diversity & Inclusion  Total 
€47,500  €20,000  €15,000  €30,500  €5,000  €18,600  €136,600 
  • Community Sports Hubs: Dormant Accounts Funding will be allocated to the 38 existing nationwide hubs that are part of the five-year funding period (2020–2024). 
  • Training & Education: This initiative supports learners from socio-economically disadvantaged communities, diverse backgrounds, and individuals with disabilities who wish to enhance their skills. 
  • Volunteer Supports: Aims to identify and assist volunteers working in disadvantaged communities or with people with disabilities, helping them gain leadership skills in community sport and physical activities (e.g., coaches, leaders, referees, committee members). 
  • Sports Inclusion Disability Projects (SIDP): Focuses on reducing barriers to sports participation for people with disabilities through minor infrastructure developments, increasing participation opportunities in Carlow. 
  • Equality, Diversity & Inclusion: Supports projects addressing obstacles to participation for individuals in diverse communities, promoting accessibility and inclusion in sports. 

Dr Úna May, CEO of Sport Ireland, added: 

“We are very happy to announce this investment package of €5.1 million 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.” 

Ministerial Support for ‘Sport for All’ 

In announcing the Dormant Accounts Funding, Minister Thomas Byrne highlighted the importance of grassroots initiatives in fostering a more active, healthier Ireland. He said: 

“The Olympics and Paralympics have provided us with so many memorable sporting moments, but involvement in sport begins at the grassroots level. This €5 million allocation represents a significant milestone in our efforts to make sport accessible to all members of our community.” 

Byrne’s emphasis on grassroots involvement resonates strongly with Carlow Sports Partnership’s mission to use sport as a means of community development. The funding will empower projects that directly address the barriers many people face in participating in physical activities, particularly in disadvantaged areas, women’s sports, and sports inclusion for people with disabilities. 

Impact of the Dormant Accounts Fund on Carlow 

The €136,600 in funding will have a positive impact on Carlow’s communities, particularly those who are marginalised or underrepresented in sport. By investing in training, volunteerism, and inclusivity, this funding will provide long-term benefits such as: 

  • Health & Well-being: Increased participation in physical activity leads to better mental and physical health, reducing issues such as obesity, anxiety, and social isolation. 
  • Inclusive Opportunities: Programmes targeted at women, ethnic minorities, and people with disabilities will ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate in sport and physical activity. 
  • Volunteer Growth: Supporting volunteers is key to sustaining the local sports ecosystem, ensuring that community-led activities continue to thrive. 

What’s Next for Carlow Sports Partnership? 

Carlow Sports Partnership is committed to using this funding to create meaningful, long-lasting opportunities for people across the county. The combination of national and local support will enable the partnership to: 

  • Expand current projects aimed at removing barriers to sport. 
  • Develop new initiatives that promote participation in underrepresented groups. 
  • Continue building a more inclusive and diverse sporting community in Carlow. 

By ensuring that everyone has access to the benefits of sport, Carlow Sports Partnership is helping to create a healthier, more active county for years to come.