asked the Minister for Local Government the present position regarding Birr swimming pool, County Offaly; when this matter was first brought before his Department; if he will outline the reasons for the delay, if any, caused by his Department; and, if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Birr Swimming Pool.
45.
This pool is being provided by a local group. The proposal first came to the notice of my Department in 1967, when Offaly County Council applied for sanction for the raising of a loan of £20,000 which they proposed to contribute towards the cost of the pool. The loan could not be sanctioned at that time because of other demands on capital funds and the council were informed to this effect. I understand that subsequently the promoters went ahead with construction work but the plans of the pool were not submitted to my Department at that stage.
In June, 1970, the capital position enabled me to approve of the making by Offaly County Council of the proposed contribution towards the cost of the pool, subject to clearance of the technical details. Plans of the pool were received in my Department on the 11th May, 1971, and were approved on 10th June, subject to some changes affecting the superstructure. Revised superstructure plans were received on the 21st September, 1971, and were approved on 26th October. There was, therefore, no avoidable delay on the part of my Department in dealing with this proposal.