Denis Landy (Labour) | Oireachtas source

Last May, Senator Whelan and I tabled a Private Members' motion on the National Library of Ireland, National Gallery of Ireland and so forth. I understand from media reports today that the National Library has indicated that a lack of funding is preventing it from fully carrying out its functions. When Senator Whelan and I raised this issue in May, the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Deputy Heather Humphreys, acknowledged that additional funding was required and informed the House that she would endeavour to secure it in the next round of budget allocations. The budget has been announced in the meantime. Administration costs in the National Library account for only 20% of its income, which is probably one of the lowest ratios in the State.It operates with a reduced staff and a massively reduced budget. The time has come to return its budget. The boat is lifting and the National Library, which holds all the national records, needs to be assisted. Will the Leader ask the Minister to come to the House next week to discuss the proposals she has put on the record for the future improvement of the National Library?