Appeal to HSE over vacant Mayo swimming facility

A Mayo Oireachtas member has issued an appeal for the reopening to the public of the vacant swimming pool at the HSE-owned Áras Attracta facility in Swinford.

Senator Mark Duffy elaborated: "I have spoken regularly on the regeneration of our market towns, bringing life, energy and families back into towns and villages across Ireland, including in my county, Mayo.

"I recently attended the launch of the community futures plan for the Killasser-Callow community.

"There was brilliant energy and vibrancy about community-led proposals for improving the community. It is very much a grassroots-led approach.

"There is a swimming pool in Swinford, in the periphery of Killasser and Callow, that is owned by the HSE and located on the substantial Áras Attracta site.

"It was enjoyed as a swimming pool by the community and was used by those with disabilities. It was heated to a few degrees warmer than a traditional amenity pool.

"It is now lying vacant. There is a great opportunity for the State to invest in and re-energise this incredible facility and asset for the people of Swinford and the general area.

"It could then be used as a facility for those with disabilities and those who want to use swimming for physical and mental health improvement.

"I ask that we request the Minister for Health to come in to discuss the Áras Attracta site in Swinford.

"It is not being used to its full potential at the moment. There are amenities on site.

"Working alongside Mayo County Council and the community on the ground, this could be a great opportunity to create additional amenities that were there in the past for Swinford, which could also stimulate town centre regeneration and get life and light back into the derelict and vacant properties there."