Our Rural Future: Minister Heather Humphreys Officially Opens Multi-Purpose Sports Facility In Banteer

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD visited Banteer, on January 14th to officially open a new stateof-the-art multi-purpose sports facility which will service the Duhallow area.

IRD Duhallow, who were the lead-party of this project, secured funding of €1.3 million under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund in 2019 for the construction of the multi-purpose, flood-lit, regulation-sized, allweather Astro Turf facility, which includes a spectator area, sports pavilion and a museum/exhibition area which can also be used for events and activities.

The exhibition area has been adapted to also incorporate a remote working hub, which will facilitate local workers and businesses.

Speaking at the opening, Minister Humphreys said:

“I am delighted to be here in Banteer today to officially open this new state-of-the-art sports facility. This is a transformational project for the Duhallow area and I wish to congratulate IRD Duhallow and their project partners on completing the project. I have no doubt that this facility will be a valued resource within the community and will have a positive influence on the local economy, while promoting health and fitness in the region.”

Maura Walsh, Manager of IRD Duhallow said:

“We are delighted to welcome Minister Humphries to officially open this wonderful facility which was made possible through the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund. We congratulate Banteer Community, with whom IRD Duhallow has worked over our previous LEADER Programmes developing their capacity and supporting a broad range of Community services and an impressive community infrastructure, thus ensuring their Rural Future.”

• Facility includes flood-lit astro-turf facility, spectator area, sports pavilion and event space

• Facility also includes remote working hub which will supported local workers and businesses

• Supported through the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund

Millstreet Pipe Band playing at the opening of Banteer Community Sportsfield.

Minister Humphreys is pictured with Dermot McCarthy, Chairman and Denis Withers, Secretary.

The minister addressing the large gathering at the opening of Banteer Community Sportsfield.

Minister Humphreys, pictured with Committee members, local Councillors and IRD Duhallow board members

Denis Withers and Dermot McCarthy of Banteer Community Sportsfield Committee presented a Bouquet to Minister Humphreys after she officially opened the new facility.

Michael Twohig, Chairman of IRD Duhallow, presenting a Hamper to Minister Humphreys at the opening of Banteer Community Sportsfield.

Minister Humphreys chatting to local ladies Eileen Murphy and Julia Barry after she officially opened Banteer Community Sportsfield.

Heather Humphreys, Minister for Social Protection and Rural and Community Development chatting to Maura Walsh, CEO of IRD Duhallow at the official opening of Banteer Community Sportsfield.

The minister met local children Dara McHugh, Cathal Browne, Eibhlin Browne, Daisy Buckley and Zara Buckley.

Emily, Clodagh and Leah Tarrant, Eliza Smith and Ruby Cullinane were delighted to meet Minister Humphereys

All photos by Sheila Fitzgerald