Alliance MLA Chris Lyttle has said now is the time to come together to empower children through sport, as he spoke of his disappointment that the £40m football stadia funding is under threat.

Speaking after he raised the issue directly with the Minister, Mr Lyttle said waiting 11 years for action in the area is simply not good enough.

He added: “Football is uniting, inspiring and empowering children and adults of all backgrounds and abilities across our community, despite some of the most chronically underfunded facilities in these islands.

“It is 11 years, three DUP Ministers and two Sinn Féin Ministers since the £40m football stadia funding was announced.

“Think how many children and young people could have been positively impacted throughout this time.

“The failure of successive Ministers to release this investment is robbing the people of Northern Ireland of access to facilities that would empower development across our community.

“I urge the DUP to reflect on the impact of the First Minister resignation and Communities Minister Hargey to do everything in her power to find a way to be the Minister that releases this vital funding for the benefit of everyone in our community.”