Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 July 2022
96. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if his Department provides funding for the development or refurbishment of playgrounds; if so, if he will provide details of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36689/22]
View answerMy Department operates the Play and Recreation Capital grant scheme, which provides funding, via Local Authorities, to support the development of new recreation facilities for children and young people. The scheme also funds the refurbishment of existing play and recreation facilities and the incorporation of natural play elements.
The criteria for the scheme were developed in partnership with the Local Authority Play and Recreation Network, established to bring a focus on play and recreation within each local authority. Grants are for the development of new play facilities, the refurbishment of existing playgrounds and/or the incorporation of natural play areas.
For each project, 25% of the awarded amount must be provided by the Local Authority. Facilities and equipment funded must be accessible to children and young people of all abilities, as far as possible.
All facilities and equipment funded must be child-friendly and safe, and all projects funded under the scheme must provide evidence that children and young people living locally who will have access to the facility have been consulted about the project for which funding is sought.
All spaces and facilities for which funding is granted must be available for use by all children and young people in the locality at times when they are free to use them, including outside of school hours.
Over the last five years, €2,070,000 was provided by my Department through this fund for the development and renovation of children’s playgrounds. In 2022, €450,000 was awarded to 29 Local Authorities. Some of the projects covered include wheelchair accessible swings, sensory equipment, and learn to cycle tracks.
Children’s playgrounds and play areas should be places of fun and activity for all children to enjoy, so that every child can experience the joy and excitement that comes with playing outdoors.
