Newry Swimming Pool Fees - The Protests Continue!

Newry Unite in the Community are protesting this evening at the Newry Development Committee meeting at Newry an Mourne District Council HQ on Monaghan Row over proposed hikes in fees to use the new Newry Swimming Pool when it opens later this Spring. A petition has also been opened at www.change.org

The new rates proposes to increase the price up £65 to a life membership for those over 65 while disabled people will have to raise £165 per year when the new pool opens.

SDLP Councillor Kevin McAteer has called for a review of the decision to increase prices claiming the decision is 'unfair.'

“The recent announcement of a price rise in swimming pool prices is a disgrace particularly in a time of austerity and welfare cuts. A local union - Unite has taken to social media with a petition to highlight the issue and I would urge those opposed to these rises to sign it.”

“The situation is a result of the merger between Newry, Mourne & Down Councils - a situation which we did not ask for and was forced upon us by Stormont. Officers have suggested that where there is a difference between a price charged by Down and Newry and Mourne that the higher price should become the price for the new council.  

This decision will impact the most vulnerable in my area and I publicly condemn this situation.”

Also speaking ahead of tonights meeting, Sinn Fein group Leader Mickey Ruane has confirmed that his party will not be supporting any increase in charges to Newry Swimming Pool for pensioners or the disabled.

Mr Ruane said Sinn Fein would go into tonight’s Development Committee meeting determined to get the best deal for people in the district.

“Sinn Fein will not be supporting any increase in charges to the new swimming pool for pensioners or disabled people,” he said.

“Furthermore, we will be seeking a commitment that services will now be council led, more affordable and more accessible.

“The new pool has been a substantial investment in the area and we want to ensure that ratepayers get the maximum return for their investment and that the people of the district get the maximum benefit from this fantastic new facility.

“As this issue is still at the Development Committee stage no decisions have been taken on it but Sinn Fein will be going into tonight’s meeting with this clear stance and we hope that other councillors will support us in this.”