Sligo Rovers apply for funding under Immigrant Investor Programme ...

The Department of Justice describe the programme as: “The Immigrant Investor Programme (IIP) is a pathway for non-EEA nationals to secure immigration permission to Ireland on the basis of long-term investment of a sum of money in a project that has been approved for that purpose by the Department of Justice and other Government stakeholders.

“The IIP was introduced by the Irish Government in 2012 to encourage inward investment for the creation of business and employment opportunities in the State. The programme is designed to encourage investors and business professionals from outside the European Economic Area to avail of opportunities of investing and locating their business interests in Ireland and acquire a secure residency status in Ireland.”

Westport United FC, Dublin GAA, Monaghan GAA, Connacht Rugby and DCU are among the organisations who have received support under this scheme, say the Bit O’Red.

The club’s application under the scheme is due to be evaluated this year.

In an notice issued to fans this week, Rovers gave an update on their Masterplan development and where it stands.

Phase 1 of the plan is already underway with the addition of new floodlights, coming from a grant of over €200,000 from the current government as well as significant spending by the club on this project.

Rovers said: “The Showgrounds has been the home of Sligo Rovers since the club was founded in 1928. Sligo Football and Sports Development Society (SFSDS) is a co-operative society, wholly owned by the people.

“In 2021, as part of the preparations for the Sligo Rovers in 2028, the club carried out a widespread consultation process. The resultant Masterplan sets out how the club and the Showgrounds might serve future generations.

“Statutory Planning Approval for the development, in accordance with the Masterplan, was sought from Sligo County Council and secured in February 2023.”

The club say they will apply for large scale funding.

“Following a public procurement process in accordance with the EU rules, an experienced multi-disciplinary design team was appointed in November 2023. The detailed design and costing of the proposed facilities is underway.

“The Integrated Design Team comprises the following professionals: • Rhatigan and Company, Architects (Architect, Assigned Certifier and Employer Representative) • Atkins Ireland (Civil and Structural Engineers) • Patrick McCaul (Mechanical and Electrical Engineers) • ORS (Fire Safety Engineers and PSDP) • CQS Group (Quantity Surveyors)”

The Department of Sport has indicated it will shortly invite applications for a new round of the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF). Sligo Rovers will lodge an application for support.

It is expected that allocations from this fund will be made during the lifetime of this government. Earlier work carried out, including receiving planning permission and the appointment of a Design Team, leave Sligo Rovers in contention to benefit from substantial LSSIF funding.

The club is grateful for the ongoing support it is receiving from the local authority, Sligo County Council, the FAI and national and local public representatives in relation to the Masterplan.

Sligo Rovers added: “We are conscious of the club’s rich history. We hope that the required level of state funding will be provided to allow Sligo Rovers serve the needs of future generations and continue its role as a valued ambassador for the League of Ireland in the regions.”