€226,000 in funding for Leitrim Sports Partnership announced

Leitrim councillor Cllr James Gilmartin, a member of the Leitrim Sports Partnership Board, has welcomed the announcement of €226,000 in funding for Leitrim Sports Partnership, describing it as a significant investment in sport, physical activity and community wellbeing across County Leitrim.

The funding will support the continued delivery and expansion of a wide range of programmes throughout the county, with a strong focus on inclusion, older adult participation and improving opportunities for women and girls to engage in sport and physical activity.

Speaking following the announcement, Cllr Gilmartin said: “As a member of the Leitrim Sports Partnership Board, I see first-hand the impact this work has in communities across the county. This funding is extremely welcome and will have a real and
positive effect on people of all ages and abilities.” The investment will support older adult programmes such as chair-based exercise classes, strength and balance initiatives, falls-prevention programmes, social walking groups and low- impact cycling activities, all of which play a vital role in supporting healthy ageing, independence and social connection. Funding will also enable the continued delivery of inclusive programmes for people with disabilities and additional needs via the newly established Sports Inclusion Disability Hub which is based in Leitrim Gaels GAA grounds. Activities include inclusive multi-sport sessions, adapted physical activity classes, sensory-friendly activities and inclusive summer camps for children, teenagers and adults."

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He continued: "A key priority of the funding is to improve female participation in sport and physical activity. This will be achieved through initiatives such as women-only fitness classes, Couch to 5K and beginner walking and running programmes, teenage girls’ activity programmes and recreational sport opportunities designed to suit different life stages and lifestyles. In addition, the funding will support community-based activities including local walking and cycling initiatives, multi-sport programmes, outdoor recreation such as kayaking and paddleboarding, and programmes delivered through community sport and physical activity hubs across the county."

Cllr Gilmartin also highlighted the importance of supporting those who deliver sport locally, noting that funding will contribute to the training and upskilling of volunteers and leaders, including safeguarding and sports first aid training, ensuring safe, welcoming and well-run programmes.

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In closing, Cllr Gilmartin paid tribute to the dedication of those involved in Leitrim Sports Partnership. “This funding is a recognition of the hard work, commitment and passion of the staff, board members, volunteers, clubs and community groups who are involved in the Sports Partnership. Their efforts ensure that sport and physical activity remain accessible, inclusive and impactful across County Leitrim, and I want to acknowledge and thank them for the vital work they continue to do.”