Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 5 Feb 1992

Vol. 415 No. 4

Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Dundalk (Louth) Swimming Pool.

Michael Bell

Question:

9 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for the Environment if his attention has been drawn to the fact that for the past three years the Dundalk swimming pool fundraising committee have been actively raising funds for the provision of a much needed swimming pool in the town of Dundalk; if he will accept that, with a population of 25,000 people and a hinterland of 60,000 people Dundalk has an outstanding claim for this long-awaited facility; if he will outline the plans his Department have to grant aid the project directly or through the national lottery; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Dr. O'Hanlon

I will be writing shortly to Dundalk Urban District Council in relation to their outline proposal to build a swimming pool. The project is at the initial planning stage only. The commitment of funds to such a project would be considered only when detailed design proposals have been approved and the local authority are in a position to accept a tender.

Mr. Bell

Would the Minister agree that Dundalk the largest provincial town in the country, with a population of 25,000, is the only town of that size here or in Europe that does not have basic swimming facilities, particularly since it has a hinterland of nearly 80,000 people? I know the Minister is aware of this position since he is a near neighbour of ours. Will he say whether he is favourably disposed to such a project?

Dr. O'Hanlon

Certainly, I agree with Deputy Bell on the desirability of having a swimming pool in a town the size of Dundalk with its population and attendant hinterland to which he referred. The position is that we await detailed design proposals on receipt of which we will certainly examine the matter.

Mr. Bell

Since this matter has been discussed for over 20 years without any success, over the lifetime of successive Governments, will the Minister give the matter his urgent attention?

Dr. O'Hanlon

We will certainly give it our urgent attention, but it would be inappropriate for any Minister to commit funds in advance of having a detailed design proposal before him.