Founded in 1973, Eastern Harps GAA Club stands at the heart of the community it serves in Co. Sligo. Born from two neighbouring communities who came together to realise their shared strength, the club now supports over 500 members and approximately 20 teams, from nursery level through to adult competition.
Serving a dispersed rural population in south Sligo, Eastern Harps has grown into a vital community hub, sustained by a strong volunteer base. Beyond sport, it provides inclusive opportunities that promote health, social connection, and community participation.
Meeting Community Needs
Eastern Harps operates as a daily-use community asset:
- One of the first clubs nationally to join the Healthy Club Initiative, promoting physical activity, mental wellbeing and healthy lifestyles.
- Partnership with childcare provider Spraoi delivers a crèche service supporting 16 local families while providing sustainable income.
- Hosts the annual Castle 2 Cave Camino, attracting participants from across Ireland and overseas.
This integrated approach strengthens community cohesion while addressing local service gaps.
Role of WDC Finance
The Western Development Commission has been a key partner in enabling the club’s development.
- Clubhouse construction: term loan support helped manage cashflow and complete the facility.
- Facility improvements: loan finance supported upgrades including a community walkway, spectator stand and site enhancements.
- Future expansion: acquisition of eight acres will enable a new pitch and expansion of the widely used walkway.
Access to flexible finance from the WDC allowed the club to deliver infrastructure in phases and leverage grant funding.
Support from the Western Development Commission enabled us to complete key facilities and continue developing the club as a shared community resource for the future.
Seán Scott, Chairman, Eastern Harps GAA
Impact
Community & Social
- Strengthens social inclusion and rural community cohesion.
- Provides essential childcare services locally.
Health & Well-being
- Encourages lifelong physical activity and healthy lifestyles.
- Supports mental wellbeing initiatives.
Regional Development
- Creates shared infrastructure used daily by the community.
- Enables long-term rural growth and service provision.
Looking Ahead
With strong participation and land secured for development, Eastern Harps plans to expand facilities to meet growing demand and ensure continued community access to high-quality recreational and social infrastructure.
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If your community group or organisation is at a similar stage in its development and feels that a community loan is the next step, learn more about the type of loans we offer here.