told on Friday.

Youth and Sport Minister John Barritt told the House of Assembly: "Messina House has had a complete interior refit and, while renovations are nearing completion, it is hoped that these facilities will re-open by the end of June.'' The news came as Mr. Barritt gave MPs an update of summer programmes for youngsters.

He said camping had been given "a major boost'' with a total of $1 million being spent at Paget Island and Messina House.

Mr. Barritt added Paget Island now had a a new dormitory, as well as a renovated kitchen and caretaker's cottage.

He said: "It is now a spectacular camping site available for camping and can accommodate more than 90 campers per group.'' Mr. Barritt said there were a "myriad'' of programmes for parents to choose from this summer.

These include the summer camping programmes, summer day camp and teen camp programmes.

There will be eight summer days and four teen camps. Mr. Barritt said there were still a limited number of places available, at $25-$30 a week, or $5-$6 a day.

He added the Parks Department could grant permits for camping on Government property at Chaplin Bay, Coney Island and Ferry Point Park.

Mr. Barritt said: "There are still some limited spaces available this summer.'' Parents who want to register children for summer day camps or teen camp programmes can sign them up in the boardroom of the Ministry headquarters at the junction of Court and Reid Streets.