Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Question 85: To ask the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his plans for the future management of the National Aquatic Centre following the removal of Dublin Waterworld; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15157/06]

John O'Donoghue (Kerry South, Fianna Fail)
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During 2005, Campus and Stadium Ireland Development Limited, CSID, initiated legal proceedings in the High Court against Dublin Waterworld Limited for forfeiture of the lease on the National Aquatic Centre because of the failure of Dublin Waterworld Limited to comply with its obligations under that lease.

On 21 March 2006, Mr. Justice Gilligan delivered his judgment, in which he held with CSID on all counts. Arising from this judgment, a court order, in favour of CSID, for possession of the National Aquatic Centre was made on 29 March, which would have effect from 28 April. Plans have been drawn up for the ongoing operation of the centre in the event that the operators removed themselves from it. However, on 12 April, CSID was informed that the defendants would be lodging a notice of appeal to the Supreme Court against the judgment and the order on 13 April. The matter was due for mention again in the High Court this morning and the judge granted a stay of 14 days on the execution of the order. Deputies will appreciate that because these matters are still before the courts it would be inappropriate for me to make any further comment at this time.