One playground developed in Carlow since 2016 under grant scheme for play and recreation

One playground has been developed in Carlow since 2016 under a grant scheme for play and recreation, it has been revealed. 

Fine Gael's Hildegarde Naughton asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs about the number of playgrounds developed annually since 2016 under the capital grant scheme for play and recreation.

The figures revealed there was one playground developed between 2016 and 2018 in Carlow which was one of the lowest in the country. 

Louth was the only other county which had one playground developed over the three years - Dublin had 13 playgrounds between 2016 and 2018 while Donegal had 11. 

Minister Katherine Zappone said: "The Department also works with the Local Authority for Play and Recreation Network (LAPRN).

"The LAPRN was established to bring a more coordinated approach to the implementation of the National Play and Recreation policies, and this Department works closely with the group to develop and promote improved play and recreation facilities.

"Since 2018 DCYA have established annual meetings with the LAPRN members and established a sub-group of the LAPRN to consult on the application process for Play and Recreation."