Cash bonanza

Cash bonanza

6 November 2024

DOWN GAA have been awarded €15.4 million in funding to develop its new centre of excellence in Ballykinlar.

The investment comes from the Special EU Programmes Body’s (SEUPB) Peaceplus Programme.

Plans for the development include four full-sized pitches, an indoor multi-use games area, walking trail, gym, heritage museum and community facilities.

The centre will be built on land which was part of the former Ballykinlar army camp.

Delighted Down GAA Chairperson John Devaney highlighted his gratitude to all involved.

“The confirmation of funding from the Peaceplus Programme is a significant step in our plans,” he said.

“This is an iconic project that has the potential to be transformational for those involved and those who will benefit.

“We are grateful for the support of officials within the Ministry of Defence, the Ballykinlar GAA club, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, and our public representatives.”

SEUPB Chief Executive Gina McIntyre said: “We have seen from previous Peace programmes how shared civic spaces can act as beacons of hope within a community, real catalysts for change and enhanced socio-economic environments” she said.

“These new facilities will provide places where people can come together, collaborate and engage with one another in a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment. They are crucial for peace-building and reconciliation.”

The plans have been in the pipeline and there is no doubt just how much of hand this investment has had in the project now coming to fruition - something that has received a resounding response from local representatives. 

South Down Sinn Féin MP Chris Hazzard said he welcomed the funding announcement.

“Sinn Féin has been supportive of this project for many years and have actively pushed for funding to be awarded to Down GAA,” he said.

“This is a significant piece of funding from the EU and represents their ongoing commitment to our local communities and peace building here.

“I look forward to seeing this game-changing project delivered and the local GAA community enjoying these fantastic new facilities.”

South Down SDLP MLA Colin McGrath said the project offered a bright future for the area.

“I have no doubt that the delivery of the new centre will be transformative for this area and is so indicative of the future we seek to build,” he said.

“Somewhere that was previously a focal point of division and highly symbolic of our past, will be transformed into a centre for the future which brings local communities together in a remarkable way.”

Councillor Gareth Sharvin joined his SDLP colleague in welcoming the news. 

“As a proud Gael and long-standing volunteer within my local GAA club, this has been the news that we were all hoping and waiting for. 

“It is a huge boost for the local area and shows the inclusive nature of Gaelic games, as being something everyone can get behind.” he added.

South Down Alliance MLA Andrew McMurray said: “It is great news to see that Down GAA has been successfully awarded investment for the development. 

“This is a great investment, not just for Down GAA, but 

also all those who will be able to avail of the facilities which are to be developed at the site” he added.