Pop-up Mayo swimming pool recruiting manager

SWIM Ireland is urgently seeking a pool manager for its pop-up swimming pool in Ballinrobe.

The heated pool, located on the Convent Road in the town, is 12 metres long and three metres wide and has a depth of 1.2 metres.

Facilities include changing rooms, toilet, hoist and wheelchair ramp.

Speaking at a meeting of Mayo County Council's enterprise and economic development strategic policy committee, Tom Gilligan, director of services, explained: “Swim Ireland has expanded its pool operations with an additional pop-up swimming pool in Ballinrobe.

“At this moment Swim Ireland is seeking an approved pool coordinator to join the team at Ballinrobe, and this is a very significant position.

“Over the past number of months, Swim Ireland has been working hard to recruit and retain the staff required to operate the pool successfully and effectively. But unfortunately, they are continuing to face significant challenges in many key positions.

"As a result, they may need to amend the current opening hours of the Ballinrobe pop-up pool. And if staffing levels do not improve, there is a possibility that there may be a temporary closure of the facility.

"Everything has been done in order to avoid curtailing the hours, but there is an urgent requirement for a qualified swim teacher who could coordinate the programmes and basic operations of the pool. This role is essential to the ongoing operation of the pool and to ensure that the service can continue to be delivered to the community.

“If there are people in the community who are qualified and interested in working at the pool, or if you know someone who may be suitable for the coordinator role or teaching and lifeguard positions, we do encourage people to apply.

"And sharing opportunities through local networks, community groups, and word of mouth could make a real difference. Because that Ballinrobe pop-up pool is very much a community project, and its success depends on all of us working together.”

Mr. Gilligan added: “There is a strong appetite to keep the facility operating and with the support of the community, these challenges can be overcome.

“Further information on the position and any other roles for Swim Ireland are available at www.swimireland.ie.

“Having a pop-up pool in Ballinrobe could also bring significant economic benefits to the area, and the facility can make a very positive contribution to the town.”