Swimming Lessons Update

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council agreed at it's Special Council meeting held on Monday 29 June 2015 in Downpatrick to a number of actions and is pleased to announce the following which will positively impact all of our customers within the district.

Recently, the new Newry Leisure Centre launched the STA International Learn to Swim Programme and this has been a major benefit for people in the area, especially in the age group from 4-7 which were not previously available to customers.

Newry Leisure Centre is currently delivering approximately four times the amount of lessons, previously delivered by the Council in the old pool and has plans to increase even further.

Due to the phenomenal success, the Council is delighted to announce that the model will be implemented in centres within Kilkeel and Downpatrick for September 2015. This will ensure that all ratepayers within the new district will receive a consistent approach in relation to learning to swim and by following an internationally recognised swim lesson delivery model. We are proud that we have a very talented and professional panel of swim teachers within our council facilities and they will be able to avail of ongoing professional development, advice and support with the implementation of this exciting programme.

Following the meeting, the Council is also delighted to announce that it will continue to engage with the private sector for the delivery of services that the Council cannot provide. Following successful consultation with private teachers and parent representatives, this will see a revised and a much more simpler model implemented for private 1-2-1 and 1-2-2 teachers within our centres.

Moving forward, where there is a demand from the community and where the Council cannot provide services then the Council will continue to engage with the private sector. This will be continually reviewed to ensure all rate payers are getting the services they require and value for money.

In addition to this, the Council will review its existing programmes to determine capability of utilising its centres outside of current opening times in a bid to enhance current offerings. For example, within Newry, the Council will review its current offering and look at proposals to utilise its facility outside of current opening times to enhance its current offering of swim lessons to help satisfy demand. This is sure to be a major benefit to the community and will ensure the centres are being used to their full potential.

Chief Executive, Liam Hannaway stated, "Newry, Mourne and Down District Council will provide a clear and coherent way forward for the provision of swimming lessons in our district and which ultimately leads to increases in the levels of regular participation in this sport across the district.

The Council seeks to ensure that it will target all ages and abilities and will consider a package of available options which meets community need, increases participation and provides accessible and inclusive activities for all citizens as part of an active lifestyle."