Hildegarde Naughton, the Minister in charge of Public Health, has unveiled a new €500,000 investment plan dedicated to the development of outdoor swimming facilities across the country. The scheme will provide grants of as much as €30,000 for projects aimed at increasing public engagement in outdoor swimming. This includes projects for improved accessibility, development and enhancement of changing facilities, as well as the acquisition of necessary equipment to support individuals with disabilities.
Sport Ireland will be in charge of managing the fund on behalf of the Health Department, accepting applications from Friday, April 5th to Friday, May 17th. The aim is to ensure project commencement before the summer season begins.
Minister Naughton, an avid swimmer herself, acknowledged the recent surge in the popularity of outdoor swimming and its numerous physical and mental health benefits. She voiced her enthusiasm in securing €500,000 in funding, as an initial phase of this new initiative for Budget 2024. This pledge will assist in the enhancement of Ireland’s vast network of outdoor swimming spots, making them more accessible to a wider audience.
“[Outdoor swimming in] our stunning beaches and picturesque lakes is not just beneficial for physical and mental well-being but also strengthens the communal bond in our diverse regions across the nation,” she expressed.
Minister Naughton is encouraging outdoor swimming enthusiasts and local sports partnerships to identify areas in their community that would benefit from facilities such as changing shelters, steps, or handrails into the water. They are encouraged to apply for part of this new funding.
Sport Ireland’s CEO, Una May, greeted the announcement with great excitement, while Swim Ireland’s CEO, Sarah Keane, was thrilled at the prospect of collaborating with other partners in making open-water swimming more user-friendly.