Paul Kehoe
Question:176 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position regarding the building of a new swimming pool in New Ross, County Wexford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9159/03]
Written Answers - Swimming Pool Projects.
Under the local authority swimming pool programme, 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 programme, grants up to a maximum of €3.8 million are available towards either the refurbishment of existing pools or the provision of a new pool subject, 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. New Ross town council advised my Department in June, 2002 that it had appointed consultants to carry out a preliminary report in relation to its swimming pool facilities. It is a matter for New Ross town council to progress this matter and on receipt of the preliminary report, the proposal will be considered further by my Department.