Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 17 Nov 1998

Vol. 496 No. 6

Written Answers - Swimming Pool Projects.

Enda Kenny

Question:

392 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation if he has considered the application in respect of extra funding for the swimming pool improvements at Castlebar, County Mayo; if his attention has been drawn to the extensive use of this pool by groups, schools, organisations and individuals; if his attention has further been drawn to the absolute necessity of upgrading of the equipment and facilities at the pool; if he will approve the proposals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23445/98]

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation (Dr. McDaid)

Contract documents for the proposed refurbishment of Castlebar swimming pool were submitted to the Department of the Environment and Local Government in September 1996.

I am aware of the strong local support for the pool in Castlebar. However, the total provision in this year's Estimates of £4 million for the construction and refurbishment of swimming pools, is fully committed to projects under construction or to projects already approved and on which work is expected to commence shortly. In addition, there are over £40 million worth of projects (including Castlebar), at various stages of planning, which are also seeking funding. Therefore, as formal approval of contract documents and permission to go to tender can only be given when the necessary funding for the project is available, I cannot give approval at this time, to the proposals for refurbishment of the pool in Castlebar.