asked the Minister for Local Government if he will state the present position concerning the proposed swimming pool at Blackrock, Dundalk.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Blackrock (Dundalk) Swimming Pool.
I am informed that the Louth County Council are at present awaiting a report from their engineering consultant on certain technical aspects of the scheme with a view to ensuring that the requirements of the county medical officer in regard to maintaining the purity of the water in the pool will be met. When this matter has been settled, the preparation of the final contract documents and specifications may proceed.
Will the Minister give an assurance that when the plans come before him for final sanction he will sanction them as soon as possible, especially in view of the great tourist amenity which this swimming pool will mean? It was mooted many years ago and I hope the Minister when it comes to his office will hurry it as much as possible.
I do not want to be too gushing in telling the Deputy what my intentions are but when we reach that stage we shall see what we can do.
Since prevention is better than cure, would the Minister subscribe to the opinion that the erection and utilisation of swimming pools might make for less hospitalisation?