Dear Editor,
Taoiseach appears to be growing proficient in grassroots political manoeuvres. During the recent stop at a coffee shop in Greystones, he promised to call a taskforce together that includes pertinent stakeholders, State institutions, and local councils, to reopen the cliff-route from Bray to Greystones (News, 30 October). Consequently, would it be realistic to anticipate that Mr Harris will visit the inoperative Glenalbyn swimming pool in Stillorgan, Dublin County and extend identical support to revitalise this crucial amenity? I harbour doubts.
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Notably, the latest allocation of sports capital grants have shown a shameful apathy towards the maintenance of swimming facilities across the nation. No new pools were approved. Twenty pre-existing pools and clubs were awarded funds that ranged from €1,800 given to Enniscorthy’s swimming club to €390,573 given to Kilkenny County Council’s pool improvement. A total amount of €230 million was distributed in grants; swimming’s share was an insultingly meagre 0.9 percent of the whole, which also includes a €200,000 contribution to the Skibbereen Rowing Club.
GAA, soccer and rugby facilities grabbed a combined sum of €147 million.
The needs of our citizens, encompassing those needing to learn swimming to those unable to play contact sports, are being overlooked.
Yours Sincerely,
Caitriona Lawlor
Mount Merrion, County Dublin.