To ask the Minister for Communities what consideration he is giving, in discussions with the Minister of Finance and other Executive ministers, to rates relief for sports clubs hit by rising utility costs.

Sports Clubs can apply to Land and Property Services for rates relief/exemption under the Sports and Recreation Rate Relief scheme. Qualification is subject to satisfying the criteria set out by the Department of Finance, Land and Property Services.

With regard to rising utility costs, I can advise that in 2023 Sport NI, an Arm’s Length Body of my Department, launched a Renewable Energy Fund (pilot scheme), a £1million pound National Lottery funded investment programme specifically aimed at improving environmental impact and reducing energy consumption at sports clubs. The fund seeks to reduce carbon emissions, produce greener sports clubs, make savings on energy bills, and create a more financially sustainable club sector. This Fund is currently closed however it may reopen next financial year, subject to funding being available.

Sport NI plan to publish advice for sports clubs on its website in the coming months, which can be implemented at minimal costs to clubs.