Fiach MacConghail (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I congratulate Mr. Shovlin on being chairperson designate. He is quite clear in his presentation about the considerable uncertainty that faced the National Library over the last five years, particularly regarding the lack of money and investment and also the uncertainty about the legislative proposals. It appears there will no longer be uncertainty around the legislative proposals and Mr. Shovlin's appointment is an indication of that. The National Cultural Institutions Act and the National Library will remain in the current position. If Mr. Shovlin has heard different mood music, it would be helpful for the committee to know that. However, that war appears to be over and we are now looking forward to supporting many of these organisations.

I have a few questions and if Mr. Shovlin does not have the answers, perhaps they could be sent to the committee in writing. They are straightforward as I do not wish to put Mr. Shovlin in a difficult position. Will he confirm if the National Library has received any increase for its expenditure in 2016? Is that specifically aimed at the 2016 commemoration or has the National Library received an increase in its funding for next year?