165 Mr. Hilliard asked the Minister for the Environment if the cost of the replacement of the swimming pool in Navan, County Meath, which was closed some years ago, is included in the 1997 Estimates for the public service under Vote 25 F3; and if not, when moneys will be provided by his Department for this replacement. [2249/97]

Meath Council Council submitted preliminary proposals to my Department in February 1995 for the refurbishment of the navan swimming pool. My Department approved those proposals in July 1995 and committed funding of £500,000 to this project. Meath Council Council subsequently decided to opt for a new pool rather than the refurbishment of the existing pool. The council was requested to submit preliminary proposals for the new pool, including fully up-to-date costings, when a suitable site had been located. The project will be considered further on receipt of this information.