No smoking areas to feature in funding review

FUNDING for children’s play and recreation projects is to be reviewed to take account of the Tobacco Free Ireland policy.

Dr James Reilly, Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, made the announcement as he sanctioned payments of e250,000 for children’s play and recreation projects across the country.

Nineteen local authorities will benefit from funding for projects under the Capital Grant Scheme for new and innovative play and recreation projects and the improvement of existing facilities.

The projects, funded by the Department, include the refurbishment and development of six urban, suburban and public housing play areas in Dublin City, and the creation of innovative, natural playground spaces and outdoor learning environments in Tyrrelstown, Dublin 15.

Minister Reilly said in future, applications for funding will face an additional criterion related to Tobacco Free Ireland.

“The Government has made clear its intention to progress policies that reduce the prevalence of smoking amongst all ages,

? he stated.

“I have made a particular point of stressing the need to stop children from ever starting to smoke in the first place and we pursue a policy of attempting to de-normalise smoking for young people.

“For that reason, in future I will request that funding for projects such as children’s playgrounds will be contingent on the relevant local authority implementing a policy of ensuring the projects are no smoking areas.

?

Minister Reilly thanked all of those who applied for funding under the Capital Grant Scheme. He also paid tribute to the commitment of the community groups and local authorities who are

“working together to improve the quality of the play and recreation facilities available to children and young people

?.

Professor Luke Clancy, Director General of the Tobacco Free Research Institute Ireland, welcomed the review of funding arrangements.

“It should help to further de-normalise smoking while preventing exposure to second hand smoke and prevention of litter which research from TFRI had shown was a benefit of Fingal County Council going smoke-free in its parks,

? said Professor Clancy.