More than €13 million in grants was awarded to sporting organisations across the country today in a bid to develop world-class facilities for athletes.
The cash boost announced by the minister for sport John O'Donoghue is aimed at increasing general participation while helping the country's leading sportsmen and women reach their full potential.
It brings to €53m the amount allocated to 517 projects so far this year under the Sports Capital Programme.
Announcing the move John O'Donoghue said: "The grants are in respect of projects of major significance which, while meeting local needs, will add considerably to the national and regional sporting infrastructure which is necessary both for increasing participation levels and in improving standards of performance."
He said the grants were "tremendously important" to local clubs aiming to increase the participation of young and old people in both recreational and competitive sport. They would help the government and local authorities deliver on their commitment to provide opportunities for everybody to participate in sport.
"The multi-purpose projects will greatly enhance the quality and range of sporting opportunities available to all members of the community from young children to senior citizens," the minister added. "They will also be a boon to local clubs and groups in providing access to a variety of facilities for training, coaching and competition right throughout the year."
He said today's allocation meant a total of almost €266m had now been allocated under the Sports Capital Programme by this and the previous government, showing a "very real commitment to Irish sport".