Jackie Cahill (Tipperary, Fianna Fail)
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849. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if she has held discussions with officials within An Garda Síochána in relation to the swimming pool in Templemore Garda college; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54399/22]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware, the management and administration of Garda business is under the remit of the Garda Commissioner under the provisions of the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended). The Commissioner is also the Accounting Officer for the Garda Vote under Section 43 of the Act and is duly responsible for the economy and the efficiency of the Garda Síochána in using its resources. 

My understanding of the position with respect to the swimming pool in the Garda College Templemore is that the Office of Public Works has, in consultation with Garda College authorities, issued licences for use of the pool to local groups on a not-for-profit basis since 2017. The public health restrictions introduced to limit the spread of COVID-19 meant that the pool was closed in March of 2020 and reopened in March of 2022. The pool closed again in June.  

I am advised that although An Garda Síochána had hoped to reopen the pool, a decision was taken by the Garda Authorities to keep the pool closed due to the high cost associated with heating, running costs, and upkeep of the facility as well as the low expected use over the coming months.

I am advised that this decision was taken in light of the current high cost of energy and having regard to the policy on reduction of energy usage in the current climate by the public sector.

While I have no role in relation to this matter, I have been assured that this decision will be reviewed by An Garda Síochána in Spring 2023, in consultation with the OPW.