The funding announced today via Scheme One, open to the FAI, GAA and IRFU, and Scheme Three, the Sports Clubs Resilience Funds, will make a significant difference to Irish football.
COVID-19 has had a major impact on all levels of our game and this Government funding offers real financial aid when it is most needed, according to FAI Chairperson Roy Barrett.
“Ministers Catherine Martin and Jack Chambers, the Government and Sport Ireland are to be applauded for the funding announced today, not just to Irish football but to all Irish sport because this will make such a difference,” Roy Barrett said.
“The unity between Government and sport in these challenging times proves how much sport means to Irish society and this announcement by Sport Ireland cements their support at a time when we need it most.
“The COVID-19 impact on the Association’s revenue streams coupled with a huge financial burden on our clubs, from grassroots all the way to the top of the SSE Airtricity League and Women's National League, has been serious.
“This resilience funding from Government is a vote of confidence in Irish football as we continue to support the HSE and our frontline workers in the ongoing battle against the COVID-19 pandemic.
“All our stakeholders – players, coaches, match officials, volunteers, parents, guardians and supporters – have done so much to keep football safe during this public health crisis and on their behalf, I thank the Government for this funding that will make such a difference to so many.
“The Government has always delivered for Irish football. They have done so again with this funding and we will continue to work with them in the fight against COVID-19. We want to see football back on the field as soon as possible and we are working with Government and our colleagues in the GAA and the IRFU to allow for the safe return of spectators in due course.”