Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 June 2004
235 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the maximum level of grant assistance available to a local authority for the provision of a new swimming pool; his views on whether this is adequate in view of the current building costs; and if he has plans to increase this grant. [16634/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the local authority swimming pool programme, LASPP, grants of up to €3.8 million are made available towards either the refurbishment of existing pools or the provision of new pools, subject, in both cases, to the total grant not exceeding 80% of the eligible cost of the project or 90% for projects located in designated disadvantaged areas. There are no plans at present to increase this grant amount.
However, my Department has commenced an expenditure review of the LASPP, the outcome of which will be used to assist in formulating future policy in this area. This review is examining, among other things, how the programme has worked to date, the benefits which have accrued to areas where pools have been built and what amendments, if any, are required to ensure the effective and efficient delivery of the programme. It is hoped to have this review completed by mid-year.
