Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

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, the provision of an extension to Carlow County Library is a matter for Carlow County Council.

I am aware that the refurbishment of the Presentation Building is classified as Priority Level 1 in the Carlow County Council Multi Annual Capital Programme 2023 – 2025, subject to funding.

The project is currently being progressed through my Department’s Four Stage Capital Management Process to ensure that it complies with the Public Library Standards and Benchmarks which guide the development of the public library service. My Department issued Stage 3 Approval for this project on the 17th August 2022 which permits Carlow County Council to proceed to publish a tender for the works in accordance with the Capital Works Management Framework. I am advised by Carlow County Council that the tender will issue once funding is secured for the project.

In April 2023, my Department invited all Local Authorities to submit proposals for the development of public library infrastructure, facilities and mobile library vehicles under the Libraries Capital Programme 2023-2027. Carlow County Council submitted a proposal for a project that included refurbishment and conservation works on the Presentation Building and also the addition of a modern extension.

My Department is currently assessing proposals received, and I look forward to announcing details of the projects that have been approved for funding under the Libraries Capital Programme in Q1 2024.