asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware of the number of intended open spaces in local authority housing estates; and if he will consider making available to interested youth bodies such intended open spaces for the building of youth club pavilions and for community centres where the residents desire such development.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Youth Club Facilities.
17.
While housing authorities, in preparing proposals for large housing schemes, are required to include provision for essential community facilities, records are not kept in my Department of the open spaces intended for such estates. I have recommended in circulars to housing authorities that, in considering the suitability of housing sites, they should have regard to the desirability of having community facilities available within reasonable distance of the dwellings. It is not always practicable, however, to insist on such facilities being provided at the same time as the dwellings, because many interests may be involved. Such insistence could cause delay in providing urgently needed housing accommodation.
18.
asked the Minister for Local Government what grants are available for the building of youth club pavilions; and if he will make available all information as to how these grants may be obtained.
Under the Local Government Act, 1941, as amended by the Local Government Act, 1955, local authorities are empowered to provide or to assist in the provision of buildings for use by an approved local council for public and other meetings and for lectures, exhibitions, general recreation or other similar social objects. In addition, under the Local Government (Sanitary Services) Act, 1948, local authorities may provide or contribute towards the cost of facilities for games or other recreation and may, under the Local Government (Planning and Development) Act, 1963, provide sites for "community facilities", and premises for a wide spread of activities including structures for the purpose of entertainment, meals and refreshment.
Are there any grants available from Government sources?
There are amenity grants available.