160 Mr. Glennon asked the Minister for Health and Children the amount of money that has been invested in children’s playgrounds over the past five years; the number of playgrounds here; and the measures being put in place to ensure that these facilities are being maintained. [6992/07]

Since the publication of the National Play Policy, Ready, Steady Play! in March 2004 a total of €24.8 million of Government funding has been expended on improving play infrastructure. This funding has led to the development of playgrounds in every local authority area in the country, with specialised schemes for building play facilities in both urban and rural disadvantaged areas. Over 400 playgrounds have been built to date with more in the development process and due for completion in 2007.

Overall responsibility for maintaining playgrounds rests with individual local authorities.