Jamie Hepburn, SNP MSP for Central Scotland, has called on North Lanarkshire Council to introduce free swimming lessons in municipal facilities.  His call comes after an independent provider of swimming lessons was told that the Council’s Leisure Trust would be taking on responsibility for such all such lessons in community facilities in the future.

Commenting, Jamie Hepburn MSP said:

“Learning to swim is crucial skill, especially at an early age, and with major sporting events including the 2011 Children’s Games coming to Lanarkshire and the 2014 Commonwealth Games coming to Scotland, it is even more important that young people have the chance to gain confidence in the water.

"The Scottish Government has repeatedly said that it wants Councils to offer youngsters every opportunity to learn to swim and live healthy, active lives.  I believe one of the best ways for the Council to do that is by providing swimming lessons for free.”

“If the Council is reviewing provision of swimming lessons, and removing independent providers from its pools, then it must guarantee that there will be alternatives available for all young people who want to learn how to swim.  It should also be taking steps to make those lessons free of charge.”