Flemish Minister of Sports Annick De Ridder (N-VA) will save over 7 million euros in the sports policy. This decision is part of a broader Flemish savings exercise announced in the September declaration. The Flemish sports centers in Blankenberge and Woumen will close, and the sports museum Sportimonium will lose its subsidy.
Details of the Budget Cuts
The savings amount to 7.4 million euros. This reduction affects various sectors within the sports policy. The closures of the sports centers are significant, impacting local communities. However, top athletes will not be affected by these cuts.
The decision to cut funding aligns with the government’s broader fiscal strategy. The September declaration outlines various measures to address budgetary constraints. The closures will take effect as part of this initiative.
Impact on Local Sports
The closure of the sports centers in Blankenberge and Woumen will limit access to facilities for local athletes. This may hinder training opportunities for aspiring sportspeople in those areas. The loss of funding for Sportimonium also raises concerns regarding the preservation of sports heritage.