Paul Gogarty (Dublin Mid West, Green Party)

Given that the question was tabled primarily to elicit an update of the position, will the Minister give a definitive timeframe on how long it will take for additional funding to come on stream in the event that the review's recommendations in this regard are in the affirmative? How quickly would local authorities be able to apply for such funding? Would it, for example, be available in the lifetime of the Government?

The Minister referred to the position with regard to Lucan, a matter I specifically raised on previous occasions. As he is aware, the town has a large population, far in excess of towns with a swimming pool such as Birr. Carlow will get two swimming pools whereas other rapidly growing urban areas, for example, Douglas in Deputy Boyle's constituency, lack swimming pools. If the outcome of the review is positive, will it be possible to make funding available within four months of the end of the year in order that local authorities can complete the process quickly and in the lifetime of the Government to avoid being caught up in pre-election posturing?

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