Parks and Play Areas

HC Deb 28 April 1999 vol 330 c190W

Mr. Hume

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what assessment she has made of the condition of public parks and play areas in Northern Ireland and the impact of social and policing problems related to the conflict of the past 30 years on such facilities. [81626]

Mr. Paul Murphy

Any assessment of the condition of public parks and play areas in Northern Ireland would be a matter for individual district councils. I am not aware that a general survey of these facilities has been carried out. The impact of social and policing problems over the years has not, therefore, been considered by central government.

Mr. Hume

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what measures the Government plan to take to improve parks and play areas in Northern Ireland. [81625]

Mr. Paul Murphy

The establishment and upkeep of parks and play areas in Northern Ireland are functions of district councils. The Government have no plans to provide financial assistance or to make improvements in these areas.