Clubs are part of the community
THE RUSH FOR RATES COULD END UP IMPACTING ON SUSTAINABILITY
THERE are some incredible sports clubs around the region - offering a wonderful outlet for people of all ages and indeed, some of those attending might never have graced a match in their lives!
The likes of Mattock Rangers in Collon who hosted the great celebration event for the local church last year and the O’Raghallaigh’s who play bingo each Tuesday at 10pm (free plug there!).
The O’Connell’s in Castlebellingham is like a hotel!
But each club is different. Some have bars and function rooms and while operating costs come into the equation, they can make back money in different ways.
Rates become a factor in their own way, but the big issue I see is the impact it can have in certain areas.
Drogheda has been blighted by violence in recent years, efforts being made all the time to focus on community and community facilities.
The likes of Moneymore needs a proper, state-of-the-art community centre and has been waiting too long for it.
One area that just went ahead and built their own base was Marian Park, home to Drogheda Town FC.
Their clubhouse offers a great outlet and I have often come across the incredible community feel about the place.
The likes of judo, Tae Kwon Do and music clubs use it, never mind the Rainbow Special Needs group. And then some locals enjoy their only night out when attending the weekly bingo.
But clubs like Drogheda Town face the same challenges as many others. They could pay thousands in rates, on top of substantial mortages and all backed by volunteers who don’t get a penny. There’s something wrong there. The rates charged to clubs using the centre must be reasonable, but that in turn leaves the sporting clubs at a loss much of the time.
Clubs without a means of income - ie, bars, should be classified in a different way to others and when it comes to Drogheda, clubs serving the community must be regarded as special cases in these difficult times.
I know when people come to look for a room for an event - especially a charity one - a club can feel the worst in the world for putting out a hand, seeking payment. It’s not what they are about.
Time for our three local TDs to tackle the rates issue on behalf of community clubs and seek exemptions for those playing their part during this difficult time for many in the town.