Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 14 Dec 1993

Vol. 437 No. 2

Written Answers. - Swimming Facilities.

Mary Harney

Question:

208 Miss Harney asked the Minister for Education if she expects facilities to be made available in Northern Ireland for swimmers from this State following her announcement that the promised 50 metre pool is not to go ahead; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

I refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 15 and 157 of 17 November 1993, which stated that the Government had decided not to proceed with the provision of a 50 metre international swimming pool complex and that the provision of a facility to meet the training needs of Irish swimmer and national and limited international competitions was being considered.

At present there is no 50 metre swimming pool in Northern Ireland although a feasibility study has recently been completed regarding the provision of such a facility. It is the responsibility of the Irish Amateur Swimming Association to arrange for the use of swimming facilities for its members in respect of which special grant assistance is provided by my Department.