Skateboarders get €2m to ramp up proper facilities

OVER €2 million is to be spent on skateboarding facilities to give young people a safe space to ramp up their skills. After years of teenagers hanging around town parks and squares seeking spots to show off, the Government yesterday announced a nationwide plan for proper facilities.

“I had initially earmarked a sum of €1m for a pilot skateboard scheme for 2005 but, in light of the number and quality of submissions received, I am pleased to say that I have approved the 21 projects selected and have increased the funding allocation to over €2m which I expect will be spent over the next two years,” Environment Minister Dick Roche said.

One of the projects to benefit by €100,000 was South Dublin County Council’s venture in Lucan.