Seán Sherlock (Cork East, Labour)
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207. To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if the forthcoming scheme for playgrounds will include accessible equipment for playgrounds on school properties. [9121/21]

Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
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Every year since 2013 the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth has provided Local Authorities with the opportunity to apply for funding to support new and existing play and recreation facilities for children and young people the Capital Grant Scheme for Play and Recreation.

One of the consistent criteria under this scheme is that the playground must be accessible and inclusive to all children including those with additional needs.

In 2019, the focus of this scheme was the Refurbishment of existing Play and Recreation facilities and / or incorporating natural play elements. In 2020, €450,811 was awarded to Local Authorities across Ireland for the refurbishment of existing playgrounds.

My Department continues to work closely with the Local Authority Play and Recreation Network to agree priorities and criteria for funding allocations. My Department is currently planning to consult with key stakeholders in Local Authorities to identify priorities for 2021. Following this discussion, a Scheme will be announced in due course.