New CSFF Grant Scheme to Replace Sports Capital Programme
Thursday 24 September 2026
The new Community Sports Facilities Fund (CSFF) will replace the long-running Sports Capital Programme, offering grants for pitches, clubhouses, and local sports upgrades.
Fianna Fáil has held an emergency meeting after Fine Gael politicians announced registration details for the new Community Sports Facilities Fund.
The Community Sports Facilities Fund (CSFF) is designed to replace the long-running Sports Capital Programme. Under the new scheme, sports clubs and local organisations will be able to apply for funding to develop or upgrade facilities and purchase equipment. Eligible works under the fund are expected to include pitches, clubhouses, floodlights, and changing rooms.
However, political tensions arose within the coalition government after several Fine Gael politicians announced on social media that registration for the fund would open next Monday. Following these posts, Fianna Fáil representatives held an emergency meeting in Leinster House. Junior sports minister Charlie McConalogue reportedly informed colleagues that the CSFF scheme was still being finalised.
A spokesperson for Sports Minister Patrick O’Donovan stated to RTÉ that details of the upcoming scheme had been shared with Fianna Fáil and Independent members of the government earlier in the week. The timing and rollout of the announcements are expected to be discussed by Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Simon Harris.