Moyle Council has 'systematically failed' GAA - Councillor Paudie McShane

GLENS Sinn Féin councillor, Padraig McShane, has been working with his party to secure major financial support to the G.A.A in the area.

Councillor Mc Shane said: “While Council have invested in the redevelopment of the James Mc Shane Park on Council owned lands, they have systematically and comprehensively failed to support the input made to community life by the G.A.A clubs in Moyle.

“The G.A.A. is the largest sporting organisation in the District with seven clubs currently facilitating upwards of 125 teams in Camogie, Gaelic Football and Hurling. These 125 teams are a testament to the countless volunteers who ensure our young people in Moyle have an outlet for their energies in a positive and safe environment.”

On entering Council in December 2007 Councillor McShane moved immediately to set up a Community Infrastructure Fund which would lend itself to supporting community based capital projects. His proposals were brought before Council and approved for inclusion in the following year’s rate.

The councillor said: “The Community Infrastructure Fund has provided major benefits to two of the G.A.A. clubs in Moyle to date. Glen Rovers Armoy have developed a new state of the art pitch and McQuillans Ballycastle have seen substantial improvements to the playing surface of their new facility in the town.

“Cushendall, Glenariffe, Cushendun and Carey Faughs G.A.A. Clubs have proposals for major improvements at an embryonic stage. I would envisage that Council will be able, through this fund, to lend assistance to these projects in the future.”

Councillor McShane went on to say: “This fund is open to all voluntary organisations in the District and we have had successful applications from the Armoy Motorcycle Road Racing Club and the Corrymeela Community for infrastructure improvements.

“Moyle residents have boxed above their weight in relation to sporting achievement across the board and it is important that all sports are supported by the local Council.”

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