Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 166: To ask the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if there are any funds available in her Department for the refurbishment of swimming pools and in the case of a pool (details supplied) in Dublin 7; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21234/10]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The management of this swimming pool, and any decision on the reopening of the pool, is entirely a matter for its Board of management. I understand that the pool is closed to the public at present pending a decision on its refurbishment, and that the Board of management is at present awaiting a report on the extent and cost of this refurbishment.

The current round of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme, operated by the Department of Tourism, Culture and Sport provides grant aid to a maximum of €3.8m to Local Authorities, towards the capital cost of new swimming pools or the refurbishment of existing pools. Where a project is being undertaken by an organisation other than a local authority, the project must be considered, supported and submitted by the relevant local authority. The current round of the programme closed to applicants on 31 July 2000 and no application was received from Dublin City Council by that date on behalf of the pool in question. Under the programme, 45 pools have been opened throughout the country with a further 12 pools at various stages of development. No decision has been taken on the timing of a new round of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme. When a new round of the Programme is launched it will be open to all Local Authorities and voluntary organisations which have the support of a local authority to submit an application under the terms that will apply.