Sport Ireland and Ireland Active have announced a €3.2 million funding package for swimming pool operators across the country.
Six Laois swimming pools have been granted a total of €67,470.59 in funding.
Portarlington Leisure Centre received the highest allocation with €14,105 while Club Vitae Portlaoise was given €11,989.
The Midlands Park Hotel is to get €11,872 while Ballinakill Outdoor Swimming Pool will get €11,754.
€10,343 is on the way to Portlaoise Leisure Centre and The Heritage Hotel is to receive €7,405.
Laois TDs Sean Fleming and Charlie Flanagan welcomed the announcement.
Deputy Fleming said: “The funding allocation is an acknowledgement of the importance of the sector and the impact swimming has on the nation’s health.
“Swimming Pool operators (both private and public) demonstrated their resilience throughout the pandemic. This funding announced will assist them continue getting communities active.
“Swimming pools provide a vital resource for schools, clubs and communities and is particularly popular with the older people in our community.
“In addition to the physical benefits from swimming it can also be a great social outlet with various classes / lessons open to all ages and groups in Laois.
“I would encourage people to access their local pools and keep active as this has never been more important and is essential for our physical and mental wellbeing.”
Deputy Flanagan said: “This funding allocation is an acknowledgement of the importance of the sector and the many positive benefits swimming has on our health.
“While it is appreciated the last two years has been a difficult period for everyone including swimming pool operators across the county, the funding announced by Sport Ireland and Ireland Active today will help provide much needed financial assistance to swimming pool operators.
“Swimming Pool operators demonstrated their resilience throughout the pandemic.
“It is intended the funding announced today will assist swimming pool operators to continue getting communities across the county active and providing a real-life skill. Something which is essential for our physical and mental wellbeing.
“Swimming pools provide a vital resource for schools, clubs, and communities across the county, and it is important that this infrastructure is maintained going forward.
“This investment will help swimming pool operators continue to provide safe and essential service which is vital to sustain swimming and maintain physical activity levels for all ages.”
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