David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I recognise the work the Minister of State is doing in this area and his personal interest in it. With reference to Question No. 68, will he outline what supports are in place to assist communities that do not currently have a centre to develop one? Will he consider doing a national audit of towns and villages across the country to see where the deficits are and to encourage and support local authorities to put in place measures to ensure, first, that land is made available and that community centres can be constructed in those locations? It might be done as part of a planning condition. I am involved in a small community centre that is used by 1,000 people a week. It is amazing to see people, young and old, using it, as well as children's clubs, fitness clubs and God knows what else. If we build it, they will come. It is a fantastic facility and the community services programme is terrific. I support the Minister of State in the work he is doing in this area. I encourage him to carry out an audit across the country to see where the blank spots are and support the provision of centres in some of those areas.

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