A further 30 swimming pools across Ireland are to receive a share of more than EUR5.3m (£4.6m) of government funding in order to improve access for users with disabilities.

The funding has been allocated as part of the Green Swimming Pool initiative and will also see support provided to help facilities improve energy efficiency.

Among the access improvements to be implemented at the pools to receive funding will be the installation of new ramps and hoists and the widening of doorways.

Minister of state for tourism and sport Michael Ring said: "The new EUR5.3m worth of grants will be used for a range of purposes depending on the pool."

"I am also allocating additional funding under the green swimming pool initiative to improve energy efficiency in swimming pools."