Two and a half years since the Glen Dhu learn-to-swim centre was closed due to COVID, its future remains uncertain as the Liberal government refuses to act to save it.
The initial closure was understandable after the arrival of COVID, but six months later, the government was caught out quietly trying to "repurpose" the centre - a clear euphemism for closing it - rather than spend the money needed to replace its boiler and reopen it.
The government had argued that the even depth of the pool made it unsuitable for learning to swim even though it's this feature that makes it ideal for teaching swimming.
They were forced to abandon their plans after community outrage and, on the eve of the last election, committed $1.5 million to upgrade and reopen the facility.
But, even though funding was allocated in the 2021 - 22 budget, there is still no sign of learn-to-swim classes resuming, and local schools that need a facility for students' swimming lessons have been left high and dry.
The government needs to stop playing games with the community and deliver what they have promised, instead of making cynical election promises only to abandon them later and hope no-one notices.
Michelle O'Byrne MP
Labor Member for Bass
