Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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Question 434: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the funding applied for by Drogheda Borough Council, Dundalk UDC, Ardee Town Commissioners and Louth County Council to his Department for playgrounds for each of the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22683/06]

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. €72,000 was allocated to Louth County Council under that scheme for a playground at Dundalk. In 2005 my Department provided funding of over €2 million to local authorities for the development of playground facilities. A fixed grant of €60,000 was allocated to each County and City Council, including Louth County Council, to meet the cost of purchase and delivery of playground equipment. No applications for funding were received from Drogheda Borough Council or Dundalk or Ardee Town Councils.