Finian McGrath
Question:470 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if the new national aquatic centre in Blanchardstown is properly equipped to deal with the water events in the Special Olympics. [15960/03]
Written Answers. - National Aquatic Centre.
Dublin Waterworld, a private sector commercial company, has been granted a 30 year lease to operate the centre. The company is responsible for the centre's day-to-day operations. Since the centre was opened to the public on 10 March approximately 170,000 people have enjoyed its facilities. The response has been overwhelmingly positive. It would be inappropriate for me to interfere with the centre.
The centre's competition pools were designed and built to meet LEN and FINA specifications as required by the Special Olympics. Arrangements for ensuring the successful staging of the swimming elements of the Special Olympics at the centre are being put in place by the Special Olympics world summer games organising committee in consultation with the operators. Neither I nor my Department has any responsibility for or involvement in these arrangements.