Vol. 471 No. 4
203 Mr. E. Ryan asked the Minister for Education the reason her Department will not agree to the proposal by the International Swimming Hall of Fame to build a 50-metre pool; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21062/96]
The International Swimming Hall of Fame and the Dublin International Sports Council's proposals for the provision of a 50-metre pool is only one of a number of proposals currently under consideration in my Department. A project of this scale requires very careful and detailed consideration because of the implications for Exchequer funding of the overall capital and operating costs involved, particularly in the context of the demand for funding for a wide range of other sports facilities.
As I have stated in previous replies to parliamentary questions, the sports strategy working group established to prepare a national strategy for sport in Ireland is carrying out a wide-ranging and detailed review of all aspects of sport, including the future planning and funding of sports facilities. The provision of a 50-metre pool is being examined in the context of this strategic plan.
Pending the outcome of this report, which is due to be completed later this year, I am not in a position to give specific details about any particular proposal. A decision on the project will be made in the context of the group's report and available resources and I will then be in a position to give specific details of all the 50-metre pool proposals including the proposal from the International Swimming Hall of Fame.
