as a community centre -- if those living in the area are totally responsible for managing it, Sports Minister the Hon. Pamela Gordon said yesterday.

Sen. Gordon was responding to criticisms made by Shadow Sports Minister Mr.

Dennis Lister who blasted Government for "clear mismanagement'' of funds in building the inoperable sailing centre.

The centre, which was completed two years ago near Messina House, has never been used because a $1 million breakwater is needed. The breakwater, which sailors say is required to protect boats that will use the site, was not included in original plans.

Sen. Gordon said it was "suggested'' that the centre be used as extra camping until a full use of the centre is determined.

But Mr. Lister said: "If this facility is not going to be used for what it was built for then the next logical step would be to look at what the community has been calling for and that is a community centre.

"I will not support any of that money being used except for a community centre or some other (Youth, Sport & Recreation) programme that did not get funding this year.'' Sen. Gordon said: "We don't mind it being used as a community centre, but that costs a lot of money. If they run the facility the whole way like the Pembroke Community Club does, we would consider it very strongly.'' Pointing out that budget constraints make it impossible for Government to have the breakwater built at this time, she added: "We are not prepared to start creating additional cost to the taxpayers.

"It would be very unfair to have a community centre where only a small segment would benefit and all the community will have to pay.'' Sen. Gordon noted PCC came to Government with a proposal which did not ask Government to run the club for them.

Praising the club, she said it provides the manpower and whatever is needed, and only approaches Government at times for assistance with capital expenditures.

"Basically they cover themselves,'' she said, "and if we had more communities that are willing to take responsibility for themselves than we will welcome that.'' Sen. Gordon said St. David's Cricket Club also use their own manpower and plan to run the club.