Anger at ‘disgraceful’ Newry swimming pool price hike
SDLP Newry councillor Kevin McAteer has called for a review of the recent Super-Council decision to increase prices at local swimming pools, claiming the decision is ‘unfair.’
Speaking to Newry Times, Councillor McAteer said, “The recent announcement of a price rise in swimming pool prices is a disgrace particularly in a time of austerity and welfare cuts.
“A local union – Unite has taken to social media with a petition to highlight the issue and I would urge those opposed to these rises to sign it. The situation is a result of the merger between Newry, Mourne & Down Councils – a situation which we did not ask for and was forced upon us by Stormont.
“Officers have suggested that where there is a difference between a price charged by Down and Newry and Mourne that the higher price should become the price for the new council.
He added, “This decision will impact the most vulnerable in my area and I publicly condemn this situation.”
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Hi Annie,
I have yet to hear anyone complain about the new facilities that are on offer,I think the problem people are having is the 2770% hike in prices that a disabled child has to pay to use the new facility! I find it very upsetting to think that we are going to pay for this shiny new pool,by fleecing the most vulnerable and needy within our community. This doesn’t sit well with me,sometimes it is better to eat grass and be true to oneself, than eat steak and ignorant of peoples hardship.
Martin McKeown hit the nail on the head about the indefensible price hikes. As for city status to paraphrase Edinburgh author Ian Rankin one could suggest, ” Newry is a city, that is really a town, but thinks like a village.”