Daly defends golf lobbying

LOCAL Fine Gael TD Jim Daly has responded to reports that he lobbied heavily for funding for two West Cork golf clubs.

A report in the Irish Daily Mirror earlier this week said that a Freedom of Information request had revealed letters sent by junior Health Minister Daly to Sports Minister Brendan Griffin.

In the letters he asked the minister to note his ‘support’ for the clubs’ applications for funding under the Sports Capital Programme – a scheme aimed at helping out mainly disadvantaged applicants.

Bandon’s golf club subsequently received €41,000 and Skibbereen €7,500 under the scheme, the Mirror reported.

‘I was particularly pleased to be in a position to lobby for, and secure funding for, Skibbereen and Bandon golf clubs,’ said Minister Daly.

‘I have seen first hand the significant voluntary effort by senior club members that goes into supporting young people to participate in junior golf, and the positive effect this activity has on young persons’ well-being.’