To ask the Minister for Communities what consideration he is giving to enabling Sport NI to use part of its budget to provide financial support to sports clubs, particularly amateur clubs, affected by rising utility costs.

I would refer the member for South Belfast to my previous response to her question regarding consideration for Rates Relief to Sports Clubs (AQW 8318/22-27) which references funding support to address utility costs under the Renewal Energy Fund.

The Sport NI Renewable Energy 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.