Finn Harps remain hopeful that they can restart work on their new stadium despite being excluded from the recent round of government funding.

Building work on the 'Donegal Stadium' stalled in 2014 when the recession hit, with the total cost estimated at between €9 million - €12 million.

The club's joint application with the FAI for further funding through the Large Scale Infrastructure Fund to complete the main stand, install floodlights and ancillary facilities was rejected earlier this month.

In a statement released tonight, the club expresses 'anger' at the prospect of Donegal being overlooked again when 'when national funds are being distributed'.

However, they remain hopeful after receiving some letters of support in recent days.

"We have received letters from both the FAI and Donegal County Council confirming their support and we are very encouraged by the motions passed at the Council’s January meeting stating their intention to assist in the delivery and completion of the Stadium project.

"We have also received a further communication from the Department of Sport who stated that our application, along with cost benefit material, has been sent to their Strategic Research and Analysis Division for further assessment.

"However they confirmed that to date they had not recommended Finn Harps for a grant."

The club is also keen to highlight how the project goes way beyond being just a stadium for the senior team.

"The complex when completed including the additional pitches, will be for the people of Donegal and especially our youth who deserve playing facilities comparable to anywhere else in the Country.

"There is no doubt that if the political will is there and these commitments are followed through it would be possible to recommence work in late Spring or early Summer and have Harps playing in the new Stadium during the 2023 season.

"The Club is hopeful that with cooperation and goodwill we can get this Stadium built."