John Perry (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 299: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the funding allocated to the local authorities in Sligo and Leitrim under the local authority playground grant scheme in respect of children's playground for the years 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31101/05]

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 of my Department's Vote. Over €2 million was allocated to county and city councils in respect of 32 new or refurbished playground projects. Some €54,000 was allocated to Sligo County Council and €41,000 was allocated to Leitrim County Council under that scheme.

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, including Leitrim and Sligo, 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.