Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 16 November 2011
34 Deputy Eamonn Maloney asked the Minister for Education and Skills in relation to the public swimming pool built in 1976 which is still in the ownership of his Department and is in need of refurbishment, the works programme that will be initiated to ensure that this popular local facility after 35 years can remain operational. [34724/11]
Amharc ar fhreagraSports complexes attached to a small number of Community and Comprehensive Schools, including the school to which the Deputy refers, were established in the early 1970s on the basis that they would operate on a self-financing basis.
In recent times, the complex at the school in question has experienced some difficulty in matching its operating costs and its income. Accordingly, the Board of Management, in consultation with the Trustees, has agreed to develop a business plan with a view to balancing the accounts of the sports complex and thereby ensure its continued viability.
My Department has been kept informed by the Board of Management on the issues involved, and will support the Board and the Trustees in their efforts.
Given the constraints on the level of capital funding available, the Government has to prioritise school building projects and the very real need to ensure that every child has access to a school place. It is unlikely, therefore, that funding will be available for the works referred to by the Deputy in the foreseeable future.
