AQO 2118/22-27

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 29/05/2025
Answered On Date: 09/06/2025
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Communities to outline the support available through his Department to help grassroots sports clubs secure access to appropriate playing grounds.

Answer:

Responsibility for provision of playing fields and other recreation facilities lies with local councils under Article 10 of the Recreation and Youth Service Order (Northern Ireland) 1986.

Sport NI has drafted a Sports Facility Audit and is working with councils and governing bodies to identify gaps.

Proposals are also currently being developed as part of The Northern Ireland Football Fund for my consideration.

I also would draw the Member’s attention to the Your School Your Club initiative, which seeks to open up school sports facilities for community use, including grassroots sports clubs. I will shortly be making a formal announcement about investment for Your School Your Club for the 2025/2026 financial year.