The Mayor of Donegal Cllr Frank McBrearty Jnr has given his full support to Raphoe FC in their battle to get planning permission for a new clubhouse.
The well-known club were granted planning by Donegal County Council for a state-of-the-art facility but have met with some objections to the plan.
Up to fifteen residents have appealed the decision to An Bord Pleanala claiming the lighting and increased traffic in the area will lead to problems.
Mayor McBrearty said that as a former coach of Raphoe FC, he is very disappointed by the actions of a small number of people in objecting to the plan.
“As a former coach of Raphoe FC under 14s & 16s for a number years and as a former player I would like to commend the club on the work done to date on this very important project for the entire community of Raphoe and its hinterlands.
“Raphoe FC have Girls and Boys teams from Under 8s up to Senior level. The club plays a very important role in the development of our community especially with the town having such a diverse culture which dates back for many years.
“The club plays a vital role in social inclusion and with a club that is supported by a mixed community, it is important that Raphoe FC continue building this support mechanism for the entire community.
“I am disappointed that a small number of people living in the community feel the way they do about the project, but they have every right to air their concerns,” he said.
He added that his door is open to anyone if they wish to discuss any problems they have with the project.
The Mayor pointed out that he made extensive representation was made by him to the Department of Agriculture in support of this very important project for the community of Raphoe.
He added he also made extensive representations about the condition of the roads in that area and as a result road works were carried out in 2012 and there will be further road works carried out this year also.
“I would like to alay any fears by the community about the new football pitch by informing the community that Raphoe FCs new grounds will be a controled environment which will be supervised at all times by the club.
“It is very important for any community to have sporting facilities like these as it gives young people a sense of direction and discipline. Sport plays a vital role in promoting positive mental health within communities especially our youth and this is why I fully supports this project,” he said.