Skatepark News

This story is from the Limerick Leader website:
In an effort to highlight of the need for proper skateboarding facilities in the city, the Limerick Skatepark Action Group held a demo at George's Quay.

Local skateboarders gave a display of their skills in the hope of winning converts to their cause. According to one of the organisers, Tom Shortt, there is a real need for a skatepark in the City.
Teenagers come from as far away as Nenagh and Newcastlewest to meet in Limerick but there are no proper facilities for them. As a result they are forced to practice their sport in public spaces which in the past has led to difficulties with the Gardai.

"There are a large number of young people involved across the city in this healthy urban sport. The sport helps boys to avoid drink, drugs, anti-social behaviour and obesity. A skatepark is needed to provide a facility for the development of skills and to provide a meeting place and location for competitions and events," he said.
He pointed out that skateboarders current meet around George's Quay where they made do with makeshift ramps and rails. Meanwhile, there is a "deserted" marina very close by. "The marina represents a massive and questionable €7 million development by Limerick City Council and other agencies in a sporting facility provided for boating enthusiasts who have yet to come to Limerick," Mr Shortt added.
The Skatepark action group is hoping to avail of a special €1.5 million fund recently announced by the Minister for the Environment for the development of skatepark pilot projects around the State. The group is currently lobbying local politicians to give their backing to such a pilot project in the city and has made an early submission to the National Children's office on the issue.

"It is time to provide facilities for the young people of the city, which will be used 365 days a year. The availability of special funding and planning assistance from the Department of the Environment now presents an opportunity not to be missed," said Mr Shortt.

More news coming soon!