Sports clubs and athletes in Northern Ireland are missing out on millions of pounds of funding due to the lack of an Executive, Alliance Sport and Community Development spokesperson David Honeyford MLA has said.

The Lagan Valley MLA was speaking after hearing from representatives of the Northern Ireland Commonwealth Games team at the Assembly’s All-Party Group on Sport. It was stated that due to the UK Government's contribution of £594 million to the recent Games in Birmingham, NI would have received around £15-20 million through Barnett Consequentials.

However, that money will no longer be received due to the lack of an Executive.

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“People here are missing out due to the DUP’s deadlock,” he said. “Sports clubs are in an increasingly difficult financial position, due to the cost of living crisis. It's leading to a reduction in hours and lower participation, which is having a knock-on effect on our health.

“This is an absolute disgrace and the DUP need to get back to work, now.”