These tracks were made for walking
By Alex Redmond
Rugby and soccer pitches across the country are about to become more accessible.
It’s part of the Healthy Ireland Walking Tracks initiative which provides funding for the renovation of existing walking tracks on sports grounds.
The surfaces would be upgraded to be more suitable to people with mobility issues.
The funding could also be used for the installation of lighting on these tracks, making them user friendly, particularly in the winter months.
Minister for Public Health, Wellbeing and The National Drugs Strategy, Colm Burke announced that €1 million will be allocated to the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) and The Football Association of Ireland (FAI).
The funds will be evenly distributed between the IRFU and the FAI and from there, there will be a process in which local clubs can apply for funds. The initiative is a continuation of the €1.6 million to GAA clubs across the country and saw improvement in walking facilties in clubs across the country, including, Araglen, Newtownshandrum and Donoughmore GAA clubs in Cork.
Minister Burke said: “This €1 million fund will support both organisations to increase accessibility of walking tracks in rugby and soccer clubs around Ireland, improving facilities that will positively impact on the physical and mental health and wellbeing of people in their communities.”
Chief Executive of the IRFU, Kevin Potts said: “Part of our vision for rugby in Ireland is to connect people and communities through rugby and to ensure that rugby clubs are positive, welcoming, and inclusive environments for people of all ages and abilities. The IRFU is enormously grateful to the Department of Health and Healthy Ireland for this grant, which will enable us to upgrade more walking tracks at club facilities across the country.
“These changes will result in more accessible and safer environments, and we look forward to welcoming new members from all communities once complete.”
Interim CEO of the FAI, David Courell said: “The Healthy Ireland Walking Tracks initiative is a significant step in our mission to enhance community health and wellbeing through football.
“By providing funding for grassroots clubs to improve their facilities, we are giving our clubs the opportunity to maximise the benefits they can deliver for their local communities by making other forms of exercise more accessible.
“We are grateful to Minister Burke and the Department of Health for their vital support and collaboration - this initiative will bring lasting benefits to communities nationwide.”