Local councillor wants to 'explore the possible setup' of a League of Ireland team in Clare

Sinn Féin councillor Tommy Guilfoyle has put forward a Notice of Motion at a recent meeting of the Clare County Council, asking them to explore the possibility of setting up a League of Ireland soccer team in the county. 

As an officer and coach with Clarecastle GAA Club, Cllr Guilfoyle requested the following in his motion: "The appropriate personnel in the Clare County Council will come together and set up a discussion to explore the possible setup of a League of Ireland soccer team in the Banner County with all the relevant stakeholders. The findings of this think tank will be brought back to this chamber for further debate."

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In a written reply to this, Jason Murphy, Director of Services in the council confirmed that a strategic priority during the year of 2025 is the delivery of the 'County Sports Plan.' This is to be presented to the Social Directorate SPC (Social Protection Committee) at some point later this year. It is being funded as a pilot project by Sports Ireland, with the plan being developed in collaboration with Clare Sports Partnership. 

Along with this, Mr Murphy stated that Clare County Council is also committed to the development of sport and sporting facilities across the county, with several infrastructure upgrades planned over the coming 18 months.

With regard to Cllr Guilfoyle's motion, the Director of Services said, "The creation of a League of Ireland soccer team in County Clare should be considered through the local and national governing structures such as the FAI; and Clare County Council would be willing to participate as a stakeholder in a working group."