Online system concerns as sports clubs vie for life-saving grants

Concerns over a NI council’s new grant system have been raised as sports groups vie for vital life-saving equipment.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s (NMDDC) enterprise, regeneration and tourism committee approved ‘Call 2’ for financial assistance this week.

The second call is due to include defibrillator grants for sports clubs, following long delays after the local authority refused 22 out of 31 requests for the grants in August 2022, due to a shortfall of £30k in its budget.

Rowallane Alliance rep, David Lee-Surginor said: “What changes have been made to the application process and how will it affect applicants ?

“Is it clear to applicants that this new online portal is live now and does it state the criteria they have to meet?”

A council officer responded: “There have been regular workshops with potential applicants, that have been ongoing.

“Hopefully that will have addressed the new portal and the introduction of it and how it will be managed.

“I believe it is more user friendly, both for the applicants and for those in the council processing. And I believe it is very clear around the criteria that is required at each stage.

“So, hopefully we will be able to gather some feedback through ‘Call 1’ and make any tweaks or amendments needed moving forward.”

Fellow, Rowallane councillor, Terry Andrews (SDLP) enquired about “accommodating people without internet access”, who wished to apply for financial assistance.

The chamber was told that an officer would bring further information back to the committee on any opportunities outside of online applications.

The financial assistance including sports and community capital projects as well as money for suicide prevention and community events will begin in March with letters of offer in July.