James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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Question 73: To ask the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he has had contact with the Office of Public Works regarding the refurbishment work planned at the National Library; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24520/08]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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The on-going refurbishment and maintenance works carried out at the National Library of Ireland by the Office of Public Works are a matter of regular meetings between that institution and the OPW. The provision of a purpose built extension and storage facility for the National Library is among the priority cultural infrastructure projects included in the National Development Plan 2007-2013. Planning permission has been obtained for the building and my Department is working closely with the National Library and the Office of Public Works to ensure that this vitally important project reaches construction stage as soon as possible. In that context the process is underway to recruit the technical team and preparations for the construction contract are advancing. The project represents a very important element of the Library's Building Development Programme, which commenced in 1999. The proposed facility will address the Library's storage needs and will also provide a vital link between all of the Library's premises on Kildare Street thus improving efficiency and enhancing service delivery.