Calls for 'openness and transparency' over running of public amenity in Limerick town

ELECTED members of the Adare-Rathkeale Municipal District have called for “openness and transparency” regarding the running of Askeaton Pool and Leisure Centre.

At their February meeting, Cllr Tommy Hartigan requested that updates be provided every six months to ensure councillors are “kept informed” on any developments at the facility, which re-opened late last year following a major refurbishment project.

Cllr Hartigan noted they “don’t have access” to the contract between the local authority and the operator of the facility adding they have to “learn from mistakes in the past”.

In a written reply to the motion, Declan White, A/Senior Executive Officer for Regeneration, Community, Sport and Rural Development, said the reopening of the Askeaton Pool and Leisure Centre in December marked the completion of a "significant programme of investment and refurbishment," restoring and "future-proofing" the facility for the local community.

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He said the project reflected the support of elected members, council staff and partners including Swim Ireland, ensuring the centre is once again providing "accessible, safe and modern" facilities focused on health and community participation.

Mr White added that with the facility now fully operational, a mid-year update to councillors would be timely, when more than six months of operations will have passed and the council will be in a position to comment on overall progress.

Welcoming this, Cllr Hartigan said any update should include statistics such as membership numbers and usage figures as this will enable them to make informed decisions at budget time.

Supporting the motion, Cllr Adam Teskey said taxpayers have a right to know where their money is being spent while Cllr Bridie Collins acknowledged the facility will need some form of subvention as it is “always unlikely to wash its face.”

Owned by Askeaton Pool and Leisure DAC in conjunction with Limerick City and County Council, the facility is operated by Swim Ireland.