Play facilities: The number of playgrounds in the Republic has more than doubled to over 400, since the Government launched its national policy on play, according to the Office of the Minister for Children.
A further 100 playgrounds are planned over the next three years. Since 2004, almost €18 million has been ploughed into play areas. These include skateboard parks and what are known as multi-use games areas, some of which are aimed specifically at teenagers. Many of the play facilities have been targeted at disadvantaged areas.
Tomorrow sees the launch of the National Play Resource Centre, which is being set up to support the implementation of the Government's policy on play.
The centre will provide information and practical support on all aspects of children's play. It will also hold publications on play as well as supporting local authorities in developing play areas.
The centre will be launched by Brian Lenihan, the Minister for Children.
His office says there are relatively few accidents in playgrounds. "Children are far more at risk of injury by taking part in sports rather than by playing in playgrounds."
It points out that many children do not get opportunities to play because of fewer areas of wasteland and increased traffic.
"As society becomes more complex and competitive, play is at risk of being replaced with structured activities at home and at school."
It says the National Play Resource Centre will seek to redress these trends through promoting the benefits of play in children's lives.
A spokeswoman for Mr Lenihan said the play facilities were being kept under constant review to whether they needed to be updated or more advanced facilities put in, depending on who was using them.
Information about the work of the National Play Resource Centre is available on its website www.playinireland.ie.
It will be operated by IPPA, the early childhood organisation and Súgradh, with funding from the Office of the Minister for Children.