Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein)
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78. To ask the Taoiseach the status of the acquisition and refurbishment of premises in Ballybough, Dublin 3, for boxing; and when he expects this project to be completed as pledged through the ministerial task force on the north-east inner city. [51755/18]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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The facility at Ballybough was secured by Dublin City Council following the surrender of a lease assigned to a local pigeon club.

Finance to refurbish the facility was provided directly from Dublin City Council’s own resources, and through the North East Inner City Initiative as part of a series of short term actions.

Following the completion of works in Quarter 3 2018, it was expected that the facility would operate primarily as a local boxing club with additional provision for under 10’s services, including after school and recreation activities.

I understand that the building has not come into operation as yet as consensus could not be reached between the local entities involved on a mixed tenure arrangement.

To ensure both community initiatives are met, Dublin City Council is endeavouring to provide each entity with a suitable facility.