ASA statement on Tal-Qroqq National Pool

Robert Ebejer, Aquatic Sports Association (ASA) president, writes:

With reference to an article by Alex Vella 'National Pool - a White Elephant'? (The Times, September 28) the Aquatic Sports Association feels that the comments on the temperature and inadequacies of the pool by Dr Michael Gialanze, chairman of the ASA Swimming Board, may give the impression that the views expressed are those of the association. This is not the case.

Some time ago I had discussions with the Malta Sports Council regarding facilities and maintenance works at the National Pool and agreement was reached on a number of points.

As regards the water temperature, the agreement is that as a general rule the heating of the pool starts on October 1 each year, as has been usual practice for a number of years now.

It is a fact that repair works on the pool and regular servicing of the heating system and other equipment are normal operations. Such work is carried out on the understanding that swimmers will have as little inconvenience as possible.

Unfortunately, last week the temperature went down rather sharply and, to make matters worse, that coincided with servicing work that was being done on the heating system.

The fact that the British swimmers on a seven-day training camp had to discontinue their schedule on the last day of their programme because a fall in temperature, did not justify the complaints. Problems crop up when least expected.

This was the case when rain threatened to disrupt the recent European Waterpolo 'B' Championships in Istanbul. In Turkey, unlike Malta, they had the facilities to deal with the situation.

The ASA agrees in principle that articles stressing the negative side of the pool operations rather than the positive one, are not conducive to good relationships with the sports authorities.

Lack of mention, let alone prominence, to the smooth-running and the excellent organisation and set-up at the National Pool Complex during the European Junior Waterpolo Championships earlier this month, despite some inclement weather on the last day, was a case in point.