Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael)

Once again, I thank Senator O'Loughlin for raising this important matter, which I am talking on behalf of the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Deputy James Browne. I understand how genuine Senator O'Loughlin is on this matter. In line with the programme for Government, there was an intention to expand URDF estimates as part of the towns and cities infrastructure investment fund. Arrangements for the implementation of this funding is still under development and will be clarified further once the NDP review process is complete. However, in relation to the proposed library project, given that the main source of funding for libraries is provided by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht's library capital programme, the Senator may wish to engage with that Department or the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport regarding the River Bank Arts Centre.

I understand that the Senator wants to get the work on the River Bank Arts Centre and Newbridge library done concurrently. The funding for both of those projects, as the Senator will be aware, comes from the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport. It provides a contribution towards securing and enhancing existing arts and cultural facilities under the cultural capital scheme. The funding for libraries comes from the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht's library capital programme. I expect the Senator has been in contact with both Departments to discuss the funding for both of those projects.The Senator might follow up with them again and then revert to the Department regarding the situation with the public realm works. I will bring the issues raised back to the Minister, Deputy Browne, but the Senator might also follow up in his own way with the Department too.