Chamber
Plenary, 30 Nov 2006
30 Nov 2006 · S2 · Plenary
Item of business
SCOTTISH EXECUTIVE
Swimming Pool Charges (Senior Citizens)
Education and Young People, Tourism, Culture and Sport
John Swinburne's point about the importance of swimming for older people is correct—I very much agree with him. Nevertheless, under our system, local authorities rightly have devolved powers to determine charges at their swimming pools. They also have powers to offer discounted or free swimming if they want to. Many local authorities already offer free or discounted access to swimming pools and to other sports facilities. That is a decision for each local authority to make, according to local needs and circumstances.
I should add that most, if not all, swimming pools operate at a loss. That has to be taken into account.
I should add that most, if not all, swimming pools operate at a loss. That has to be taken into account.
In the same item of business
1. John Swinburne (Central Scotland) (SSCUP):
SSCUP
To ask the Scottish Executive what action it will take to prevent local authorities from increasing swimming pool charges for senior citizens to an unafforda...
The Deputy Minister for Education and Young People (Robert Brown):
LD
It is for local authorities to determine the level of admission charges to their swimming pools.
John Swinburne:
SSCUP
Does the minister agree that swimming, particularly by elderly people, should be encouraged by councils? Will the minister join me in deploring the 320 per c...
Robert Brown:
LD
John Swinney's central point—
Members:
Swinburne.
Robert Brown:
LD
John Swinburne's point about the importance of swimming for older people is correct—I very much agree with him. Nevertheless, under our system, local authori...