asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware that much disappointment has been expressed by the residents of the Walkinstown and Crumlin area over the lack of playing fields and parks; and, if so, whether he will consider making arrangements to improve local amenities in this regard.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Amenities at Walkinstown and Crumlin.
I am not aware that there is a lack of playing fields and parks in the Walkinstown and Crumlin areas.
In planning their housing schemes it is the corporation's policy to make provision for open spaces and recreation grounds and this policy has been pursued in the schemes in the Crumlin area.
Provision has been made as follows:—
Crumlin North: Benmadigan Road— four acres reserved for children's playground and smaller open spaces (used as playing spaces by children).
Crumlin South: Small open spaces throughout the housing area.
Crumlin Road: The housing site recently acquired includes provision for playing fields.
Captain's Lane (Crumlin South): Now being developed—parks with a community centre included.
In addition to the foregoing the corporation acquired the grounds of the Imperial Tobacco Company about a year ago. These grounds comprise about 21 acres, 14 of which will be leased to the vocational education committee for use as playing pitches, and seven acres will be used as a public park. These grounds will be opened to the public within the next few weeks.
The corporation have also a large area at Sundrive Road at present being used as a dump. These lands, which comprise about 60 acres, will be developed as open spaces.
Is the Minister aware that in a number of these areas the prospective playing fields and parks referred to are lying derelict and are being used as dumping grounds in some of the areas? Would the Minister take steps to see that the local authority will expedite this matter?
I am aware of only one dumping ground and that will be developed.