Derek Keating (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister of State for his comprehensive reply. I know he is aware that many people in this country consider investment in sports and sporting facilities to be a luxury and that it should not take precedence over what some people consider to be essential services. We have many health problems in Ireland today. Diabetes is a growing problem. Obesity, especially among young people, mental health problems and suicide, an issue in which I am involved, anti-social behaviour and crime are all problems. I understand, based on discussions I have had with the Minister of State, that he knows investment in sport helps to reverse such problems.

I want to refer to what I consider to be the ad hoc decisions taken by previous Governments in distributing the precious resources we had in sport. I live in Dublin Mid-West, part of which is the fastest-growing community in Ireland. There is no swimming pool in Lucan. A Fianna Fáil Minister opened many swimming pools during his tenure. That is just one example. I note the Minister of State will allocate the resources we have based on need and merit.

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