Mr. Cian ? Lion?in:

On the specifics of the Maynooth pool application, under the large-scale sport infrastructure fund, LSSIF, that was an application for strand 1 funding. It was an application for design funding of about €1 million. In considering all of the LSSIF applications that were announced in early 2020, the allocations and scores were based on a number of factors, such as the priority given to the project by the local authority. In this instance, in the case of Kildare, it submitted three separate LSSIF projects for consideration, which then diluted the marks for awarding. Priority was also given to the level of funding being provided by the project sponsor and how the project was likely to increase participation. There was not a specific criterion on population catchment, although of course participation is linked to population. Another important criterion was the disadvantage status of the areas as measured by the Pobal index. On that score, the Maynooth pool fell down compared with others. There was then an independent appeals process. Six projects appealed, including Maynooth. It was reviewed by officials who had nothing to do with the original decision. No mistakes were identified, so the appeal was not granted. That is where things stand on that specific project.

On the national swimming strategy, which will be published in the coming months, there will have to be a strong link between the strategy and delivery, and that is linked to capital funding. That strategy is due out in the coming months.