Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 April 2026
324. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport if he will provide an update on funding that was previously allocated for a swimming pool in Loughrea, County Galway under the local authority swimming pool programme; if that funding is still available for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31633/26]
View answerGovernment support for new swimming pools or the refurbishment of existing pools was previously provided through the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme (LASPP). In May 2009, the then Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism approved a grant of €1.7m to Galway County Council under the LASPP for the construction of a swimming pool in Loughrea. However, the local authority advised the Department in April 2012 that it was not proceeding with the swimming pool project in Loughrea. In July 2013, the Department informed the local authority that funding was withdrawn.
Capital support for new swimming pools is now provided through the Large-Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF). Applications under LSSIF must be made by either a local authority or a National Governing Body of Sport. To date, €297 million has been allocated under LSSIF including €41.4 million for swimming pool and aquatic infrastructure projects. It is noted that no application was received for Loughrea swimming pool under LSSIF. Investment in a swimming pool for Loughrea is ultimately a matter for the local authority.
While the LSSIF is closed to applications at present, my current focus is on ensuring project delivery under the first two rounds of the LSSIF. This process will inform any decisions regarding the timing of a future round, but I am committed to ensuring sustained investment in sports facilities to meet our ambitious goals for sports participation nationwide.
