Claire Kerrane (Roscommon-Galway, Sinn Fein)
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211. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development to provide an update on works (details supplied), and the proposed opening of a temporary service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54039/23]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The provision of library services, including the provision of library buildings, is primarily a matter for local authorities in their capacity as library authorities under the Local Government Act 2001. Accordingly, progress on the works in Ballaghaderreen Library, and the timeline for completing the project are, first and foremost, a matter for Roscommon County Council.

In response to Parliamentary Question 46223/23 of 24 October last, I stated that I had been advised that Roscommon County Council would publish the invitation to tender before Christmas. Roscommon County Council has advised that this will issue on 13 December 2023. I also understand that the tender will stipulate that the contractor must be ready to commence no later than March 2024, and the proposed works are scheduled as requiring 32 weeks to complete. It is expected that the library will re-open in Quarter 4 2024.

As also advised in my reply to the most recent Parliamentary Question, Roscommon County Council has entered into an agreement to lease the former Tusla office in Ballaghaderreen to operate as a temporary library, until the reopening of the library at Dillon House. I am advised that a planning application under Part 8 of the Planning process has been made by Roscommon County Council in respect of the temporary premises. Roscommon County Council have confirmed that library services will be available in the former Tusla office, immediately after planning permission is granted.

In the meantime, Roscommon County Council continue to provide a weekly mobile library service in Ballaghaderreen, alongside services to local schools and preschools and attendance at community events. Once the temporary library is operating, the weekly mobile service will no longer be provided in Ballaghaderreen and this will enable the mobile library to return to providing mobile library services, including more visits to schools in its overall operational area.

My department continues to engage with the Council to ensure that library services are maintained as far as possible in Ballaghaderreen and surrounding areas.