Concerns have been voiced following the announcement by management at the Joey Dunlop Lesure Centre (JDLC) over their changes to an admission policy for swimming.
In a recent development, a new policy has left the public concerned about its implementation. The policy, which aims to address a pressing issue, has raised numerous questions among users.
The new policy states:
- Only Children aged 7 and under can change in male/female changing rooms with their parent/guardian.
- Once a child turns 8yrs old, please change in the appropriate male/female changing rooms.
Many are worried about the potential consequences and impact on children and the lack of clear guidelines and information has further fueled this concern.
People are seeking reassurance from authorities to alleviate their fears and uncertainties.
DUP Councillor John McAuley has raised concerns with the new policy, writing: “Following concerns raised to me over the weekend by parents, I have been in contact with Senior management regards this ‘child’s admission to swim policy’ which is clearly unacceptable.
“I have also submitted it as an item of any other business for inclusion on the agenda for tomorrow night’s Leisure & Development Committee meeting so a resolution can be found as a matter of urgency.
“As a parent myself, I certainly wouldn’t be allowing my son into a changing room on his own, especially in this day and age but I won’t go there.
“It is against the law to leave a child alone if it puts them at risk so there really is no debate about this policy being wrong on a number of levels.
“Of course there comes an age when segregation is required but for me that age isn’t 8!!!
“It may even be the case that we need to look at locker villages if the current facilities don’t meet the needs of modern day society.”
As discussions continue, it is crucial for the council to address these concerns and provide transparent communication to ensure a smooth and effective implementation of the policy.
The public is eagerly awaiting further updates and clarification on this matter.
