asked the Minister for Local Government if he proposes to honour the commitment of his predecessor when he stated, as reported in the Press of 19th December, 1947, that the former Government had decided to contribute to local authorities up to 60 per cent. of the cost of necessary works in the provision of indoor and outdoor swimming facilities within their administrative areas; and, if so, when he proposes to communicate the fact to the local authorities.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Swimming Facilities.
No specific provision was made for grants for swimming pools on the basis referred to or any other basis in the Estimate prepared by the former Administration for 1948/49. There are no proposals before the Department involving the consideration of such grants at present. When any such proposal has matured to the appropriate stage, the question of a grant will be considered by me and, if necessary, by the Government.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that on the 10th March, 1948—at column 366 of the Official Report—the Minister for Local Government, in reply to a question by Deputy MacEntee, said that a decision in relation to this particular matter—
"has not yet been communicated formally to the local authorities. The matter is at present under consideration and I promise that the issue of the communication will be expedited"?
Does the Parliamentary Secretary's answer now suggest that a decision has not yet been reached and that the consideration of the problem has not yet been undertaken?
A decision will be given in this and other cases when definite proposals are forthcoming from the local authorities.