Vol. 459 No. 7
36 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Education the date she received the findings of the feasibility study commissioned by her Department to consider the options for the provision of a national 50 metre swimming pool complex; the considerations that will be taken into account before a decision will be made; the timescale involved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18677/95]
The feasibility study commissioned by my Department was received in December 1994. The Study recommended that a 50 metre pool-leisure complex, costing an estimated £17 million, be built on a site in Tallaght Town Centre. DISC/ISHOF have presented a proposal to provide a pool estimated to cost £25 million, exclusive of VAT.
A project of this scale requires very careful consideration because of the implications for Exchequer funding of the overall capital and operating costs involved. Other considerations to be taken into account include the need to bring existing pools in the country up to a modern standard, the demand for pools in areas not served at present and the demands from many other sports and community groups for facilities. In short, whether an investment of this magnitude in one facility would be to the benefit of Irish Sport in general.
These questions are being considered in my Department at present and a decision will be made as soon as possible.
