Minister for Rural, Community and Gaeltacht Affairs Dara Calleary T.D. was in County Roscommon yesterday, Thursday June 11th where he visited the recently upgraded Castlerea Swimming Pool and the provision of a lift at the nearby Hub facility. Both projects have been funded under Community Recognition Fund and Clar funding respectively.

As well as the new paddling pool facilities, provision has been made for the instillation of an outdoor double shower unit, a large 500 litre water tank and PV panels to heat adequate water for indoor and outdoor showers. Clar funding of almost €50,000 has been allocated to the Hub to facilitate the installation of a lift to ensure the premises is fully accessible.

Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Cllr. Liam Callaghan hailed the delivery of new amenities for the local pool, commenting: “As well as the new paddling pool facilities, provision has been made for the instillation of an outdoor double shower unit, a large 500 litre water tank and PV panels to heat adequate water for indoor and outdoor showers.

“Facilities have been greatly enhanced by the provision of Clar funding of almost €50,000 to facilitate the installation of a lift to ensure the nearby Hub premises is fully accessible to all users,” said the Cathaoirleach.

Hailing the announcements, Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council, Shane Tiernan said: “Castlerea Swimming Pool is at the heart of this community, first opening its doors in 1945. In a world of constant flux, this fine facility has been a constant in the lives of generations of Castlerea people and beyond.

“The pool’s new facilities, officially opened by Minister Calleary last year, demonstrates the effectiveness of a community-need-led responses and support the sustainable development of County Roscommon’s towns and villages.

In the past five years, Roscommon County Council has invested over €1m in the wider Somers Park area, creating a new play area, performance space and integrated walkways. Working together produces results that are greater than the sum of their respective parts. It is this collaborative approach that makes Castlerea an example to other towns and villages in our community.”