New pool makes a splash in Ballina

THE Ballina outdoor swimming pool was the only outdoor pool to receive significant funding for energy conservation under the Capital Sports Programme this year.

That’s according to Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport, Alan Kelly, who officially opened the heated outdoor pool, outdoor gym and multi-use gaming area (MUGA) costing an estimated €122,348 in Ballina on Friday.
With the provision of an average of 23C of heat in the pool, Minister Kelly predicted this would boost its overall usage during the summer months.
“I remember jumping into that pool as a teenager and I look forward to using it again in the near future.”
Minister Kelly revealed his own daughter has already honed her soccer skills in the all-weather multi-purpose playing area and noted the outdoor gym would also be hugely beneficial.
He described the overall development and the slipway for boats as a major tourist attraction for Ballina and Killaloe.
He said he was thrilled to be present to officially open the new riverside development.
“I looked forward to this day for a few months because I reckon it will involve the shortest journey to perform an official duty during my term of office.
“I was delighted to be in a position to help the committee secure funding for this development.”
He said it was a pleasure to work in co-operation with North Tipperary County Council and the local committee to secure the required funding.
North Tipperary Mayor, Micheál Lowry stated in his wide-ranging address the provision of sporting and recreational facilities were vital for the wellbeing of local communities.
He pointed out the provision of these facilities for all ages were particularly appropriate.
After praising pool committee chairperson, Paddy Collins, he stressed the latest development would not have come to fruition only for the hard work completed by the committee year after year.
“This commitment and dedication is an example to communities throughout the county and the country. It shows the people of Ballina truly have a sense of belonging and a sense of place.
He hoped these new facilities would enhance the tourism product in Ballina and Killaloe by showing it had something to offer everyone.
North Tipperary county manager, Joe MacGrath praised the communities in Ballina and Killaloe for what they had achieved in recent times.
“This is a very special place, not just because of the lakes and the mountains but it has a special community. Now I get the sense more than ever we have two towns, Ballina and Killaloe, working even closer together and are determined to improved their locality.
“There is a real sense of optimism in Ballina and Killaloe. There have been good days in the past but I believe there are even better days ahead,” he predicted.
In his opening address, pool committee chairperson, Paddy Collins, recalled the opening of the swimming pool on August 3, 1974 when Noel O’Donoghue from Nenagh Swimming Club was the first lifeguard and the swimming instructor was Killaloe “legend”, Peter Lacey. He expressed sincere thanks to Joe MacGrath and North Tipperary County Council, local representatives, organisations, committees, groups who were instrumental in bringing “the dream” to fruition.
The attendance included Deputy Noel Coonan; Councillors Phyll Bugler, John Carroll and Jonathan Meaney; staff members from all departments in North Tipperary County Council; members of Ballina-Killaloe community; personnel involved in the securing and development of the Park and its facilities. Young musicians from the local Kincora School of Music, accompanied by teachers Deirdre Scanlan, Caitríona Shortt and Paul Smyth, set the tone for this most memorable occasion.
The new development was welcomed by pool committee member, Councillor Phyll Bugler, who noted it was the culmination of years of hard work and dedication by the committee.
Describing the development as a huge boost for the recreational amenities in the locality for locals and visitors, Councillor Bugler said it was great to have so many new facilities located in the one area.
She said the MUGA, which facilitated soccer and basketball was a welcome new addition for teenagers in the area.
The Riverside Pool will open daily from 3pm to 7pm and from 2pm to 6pm at weekends.