Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
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Question 285: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if funding is available to local authorities to upgrade children's playground facilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30986/05]

Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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Prior to the local authority playground grants scheme 2004, my Department did not operate a specific scheme of grants for playground projects. The 2004 scheme provided up to 50% funding for the development of new or renovation of existing playgrounds throughout the country. While the scheme was administered by the National Children's Office, the grants were paid out from my Department's Vote. More than €2 million was allocated to county and city councils in respect of 32 new or refurbished playground projects.

Earlier this year I announced funding of a further €2 million for local authorities for the development of playground facilities. In this regard, a fixed grant of €60,000 has been allocated to each county and city council to meet the cost of purchase and delivery of playground equipment. Installation and all other costs, including ongoing maintenance, are to be funded from local sources.