Hunter calls for local MLAs to back football funding petition

SDLP MLA Cara Hunter has urged her fellow local MLAs to back a petition launched by SDLP Communities Spokesperson Mark H Durkan MLA.

The petition calls on the Executive to review the handling of the Northern Ireland Football Fund (NIFF).

The petition, which requires 30 signatures, has been tabled after serious concerns were raised over fairness and transparency, with several major clubs across the North West excluded - including Coleraine FC and Limavady United.

Cara Hunter MLA said: "The way the NIFF has been handled is unacceptable. For over a decade, football clubs were promised investment, yet when the scheme was finally delivered, clubs across the North West have been left with nothing.

"Coleraine are one of the best supported Irish League clubs. Their work in our community, especially in youth development, speaks for itself. Limavady are a vital grassroots club, giving opportunities to young people in our area. Neither club, nor their supporters, should have to fight for funding in this way after waiting so long for a promise that should have been delivered years ago.

"Football belongs to everyone. This isn't about party politics, it's about fairness, transparency and respect for all clubs. People across our constituency, from every background, come together to support their local teams. The Executive must now step up and deliver for them all."

The SDLP MLA said she had already signed the petition and called on every MLA in the local area to do the same.

"This is about showing that our local MLAs are speaking with one voice on this issue. I have signed the petition, and I am encouraging every MLA representing our constituency to do the same," she said.

"That collective voice will send a clear message to the Executive: our local clubs deserve answers, they deserve fairness, and they deserve investment in the facilities that will allow them to thrive for years to come."