Written Answers. - Swimming Pool Projects.
Brendan Howlin
Question:
56
Mr. Howlin
asked the
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation
if he will make a statement on the proposed £45 million programme to upgrade swimming pools; when work will commence; when the work will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[19919/99]
(Dr. McDaid): In August, I announced a £45 million grant aid package for local authority swimming pools, which will run over the next three years, commencing in 2000. During this period, a minimum of £10 million per annum will be available for existing swimming pools in serious need of refurbishment, with up to £5 million going towards the provision of new swimming pools.
My Department commissioned the Institute of Leisure and Amenity Management, ILAM, to conduct an analysis of the condition of indoor local authority swimming pools, which were built between 1966 and 1981. It identified upwards of 30 pools, in varying degrees of disrepair, which are in need of major refurbishment. The local authorities responsible for these pools, have been invited to submit, or in some cases, to update, proposals for the future development of these pools.
Given the potential which exists for attracting private sector finance and expertise in the development and operation of local authority pools, I have signalled my willingness to consider proposals from local authorities incorporating private sector participation. An interdepartmental working group, chaired by my Department, has been established to develop guidelines and advise on other key issues for the operation of a public private partnership approach in relation to swimming pools.
