Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 28 May 2026
377. Deputy Pádraig Rice asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport further to Parliamentary Question No. 373 of 15 January 2026, for an update on the plans to provide a 50 metre swimming pool for Cork (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41404/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Programme for Government commits to implementing the first-ever National Swimming Strategy by investing in pools and swimming facilities allowing everyone an opportunity to swim.
The Swimming Pool Gap Analysis Report, which was funded by my Department and published by Swim Ireland in December 2025, identified significant deficiencies in Ireland’s aquatic infrastructure and highlighted the need for urgent investment and strategic planning to ensure every Irish person has access to swimming facilities and the life-saving skill of swimming. Many of the gaps in terms of pool condition, supply, energy and sustainability can be addressed via future rounds of the Community Sport Facilities Fund (CSFF) and the Large-Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF).
Where opportunities arise, specific and targeted measures in addition to the two funding streams can be considered to lend impetus to delivery of the National Swimming Strategy. In that context, the gap analysis report highlighted the need for 50 metre pools in both Connacht and Munster.
I recently confirmed an additional €3.25 million in support to help progress the long-awaited Galway Regional Aquatic Project. The proposed allocation will close the remaining funding gap identified by Galway City Council, enabling the project to move toward the construction phase - subject to completion of due diligence, final business case approval and tender documentation.
While my Department has not had recent engagement with the club in question, my officials will be examining best to progress a strategic approach to the development of a 50 metre swimming pool in Cork.
