Sport Ireland recently announced €2.5 million funding package for swimming pool operators across the country and over €13,000 for Clondalkin Leisure Centre. The changing environment of restrictions has resulted in uncertainty and difficulty in planning for swimming pool operators. The Government has responded by providing new funds to support them through these changes.
“This new funding will provide relief for swimming pool operators nationwide who have been severely hit by the pandemic, including our own local pool here in Clondalkin. I’m glad that our Clondalkin Leisure Centre will receive over €13,000 in extra support,” said Kenneth Egan , Fine Gael Councillor for Clondalkin. “It is important that we keep people active and provide them with a safe outlet for exercise. Local people of all ages regularly use the pool in Clondalkin , and for many swimming is vital for their physical and mental wellbeing,” continued Egan.
Local T.D. Emer Higgins said: “Cllr. Egan and I worked hard together during the summer to ensure that Clondalkin swimming pool was reopened despite their economic situation. These much needed government funds will go a long way to helping the team at Clondalkin Leisure Centre continue to provide safe and essential services during this tough period and will help them prepare for a return to swimming classes once the restrictions reduce. Construction works are continuing at the Lucan Swimming Pool site, and we’re all looking forward to seeing it open next year.”
Chief Executive of Sport Ireland, John Treacy, said: “The 2019 Irish Sports Monitor highlighted that swimming is the second-highest participation sport among adults in Ireland with almost 300,000 adults swimming each week in the country’s 400 swimming pools and leisure centres. Swimming pools provide a vital resource for clubs and communities across the country. This investment will help to sustain swimming and maintain high physical activity levels.”
