Funding for youth club plan

Deputy Mayor Catherine Seeley welcomed confirmation of the funding and said: “In November 2013 the Education Minister John O’Dowd announced a new build for Clann Éireann, however, that announcement was based on a contribution from DSD of several hundred thousand pounds. DSD was unfortunately unable to fulfil that commitment and the entire project was thrown into doubt.

“However Mr O’Dowd has now confirmed to me that the Department of Education will foot the entire bill of £1.5m and that the business case for the scheme has been approved by the Department of Finance. The news brings to end a very worrying time for the club and its supporters who have had to face several disappointments over the years.

“This significant investment is testimony to the hard work and dedication of Clann Éireann Youth Club workers and committee members who have made such a positive difference to so many people lives.”