Jimmy Deenihan
Ceist:286 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the plans he has to make swimming classes available to all school children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25982/00]
Written Answers. - Physical Education Facilities.
I have given no such commitment in relation to the provision of swimming classes for school children.
The Irish Water Safety Association, which I established in November 1999, carries out a range of functions in relation to water safety, including the promotion of public awareness of water safety, and the promotion of measures, including advancement of education, related to the prevention of accidents in water.
The association is discharging these functions by making available, through the media and otherwise, information on water safety. This information is directed both at the general public and at specific target groups such as parents, teachers and children.
I also understand from my colleague, the Minister for Education and Science, that swimming is part of the aquatics programme of the revised curriculum for physical education, in primary schools. This programme is presented as one complete unit in the PE curriculum without division into class levels. This allows for adaptation by schools related to their access to a local facility. The programme can be implemented progressively at whatever stage the child has an opportunity to begin water-based activities.
The Minister for Education and Science also provides a sports grant to primary schools and it is open to schools to utilise part or all of this grant for the provision of swimming instruction should they desire.