David Stanton
Question:79 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position with regard to the Cobh UDC swimming pool application; when he expects the pool to begin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22517/02]
Written Answers. - Swimming Pool Projects.
Under the local authority swimming pool programme for 2000 to 2002, which is administered by my Department, there are four stages in a swimming pool project following the submission of a feasibility study. These, in order of progress, are preliminary report, contract documents, tender and construction. My Department's technical advisers, the Office of Public Works, evaluate each stage and local authorities cannot proceed to the next stage of a project unless prior approval issues from my Department. Grant aid is allocated only when tenders have been approved for the project and will be capped at the time of allocation.
Under the swimming pool programme, grants of up to €3,809,214 are available towards both the refurbishment of existing pools and the provision of new pools, subject in both cases to the total grant not exceeding 80% of the eligible cost of the project or, in the case of projects located in designated disadvantaged areas, 90% of the eligible cost. Support is available towards the cost of the swimming pool, toddler pool, sauna and steam room.
In the case of Cobh swimming pool, contract documents have been approved. Cobh Town Council should now, on the advice to my Department from the Office of Public Works, appoint a company to operate the pool, as it previously advised it would. This will ensure that the pool operator can have any changes to the proposed facility incorporated prior to approval of tenders.
Question No. 80 answered with Question No. 56.