Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Social Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

1235. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the number of spot checks on capital projects in the past three years under the sports capital programme and swimming pools; the number of checks that raised concerns; the way in which these cases and-or issues were resolved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15416/18]

Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Spot-checks in relation to the Sports Capital Programme (SCP) and Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme (LASPP) are carried out in accordance with the relevant Department of Finance Guidelines and are carried out by the Finance Unit of my Department. Checks are undertaken in respect of payments made in the previous year so visits undertaken in 2017 related to payments made in 2016. The checks are primarily designed to  ensure that the work undertaken by grantees is consistent with that indicated in the grant award, ensure that payments were paid correctly and in a timely manner, and that appropriate insurance is in place for grant aided facilities. The inspections are also used to obtain feedback from grantees on the Sports Capital Programme.

In relation to the inspections carried out in the last three years, the information sought by the Deputy is set out in the table.

In relation to the issues that caused concern in 2016, they included lack of adequate insurance for sports equipment, lack of disabled access to playing areas and a delay in installing material funded by the Department. Following subsequent liaison with the clubs in question, in all cases the matters were subsequently resolved to the satisfaction of the Department.