Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 267: To ask the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his views on establishing a city museum for Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28249/07]

Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)
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There will be significant enhancement in the coming years in the cultural institutions in Dublin City. My Department is currently engaged in projects to develop the existing National Cultural Institutions in the City. Within the framework of the National Development Plan 2007-2013, funding is being allocated for the construction of a Centre Block at the Collins Barracks premises of the National Museum of Ireland. The development of the Centre Block will be a major extension of the facilities at Collins Barracks and the proposal is that it will include major new exhibitions and will also display the historic vessel, the Asgard, upon completion of the programme for its conservation.

A major redevelopment of the Natural History Museum in Merrion Street is also to be undertaken which will upgrade the Museum's facilities and will address accessibility issues. The funding in the National Development Plan will also provide for a programme for the enhancement of facilities of the Irish Museum of Modern Art in the Royal Hospital Kilmainham, the National Library of Ireland, the National Gallery of Ireland, the National Concert Hall and the Abbey Theatre.

The Programme for Government contains a commitment to establish a Museum of Irish Literature in Parnell Square and this is currently being progressed by Dublin City Council in consultation with my Department. It also contains a commitment to establish a National Sports Museum and locating it in the National Museum of Ireland at Collins Barracks is being progressed at present. Furthermore, the Programme for Government contains commitments regarding the establishment of the GPO as a museum of celebration of Irish progress and achievement across a broad spectrum as a landmark 1916 centenary project, and the restoration of 16 Moore Street and the establishment therein of an interpretative centre to honour those who fought in the 1916 Rising. These latter projects are also being progressed.