asked the Minister for finance the present position regarding the John F. Kennedy Memorial Hall; and the expenditure to date.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Kennedy Memorial Hall.
29.
It has not yet been possible for me to consult the Government in regard to the John F. Kennedy Memorial Hall. Expenditure to date, which has been predominantly on the purchase of sites and consultants' fees, amounts to approximately £247,000.
Why is it not possible for the Minister to consult the Government and to come to some decision? Surely he is aware that this has been discussed here and various promises made for the past four years and that two years ago in this House the Parliamentary Secreatry stated that the plans for the John F. Kennedy Memorial Hall were then ready for the invitation of tenders and their up-to-date estimates of costs would be prepared. Did it take two years to process all that or when does the Minister envisage any progress in the matter?
There have been certain developments which have altered the proposals that I had intended to bring to the Government. As a result of these developments the proposals are being reprocessed and will be brought to the Government fairly soon.
The Minister stated that £247,000 had already been spent on architect's fees, et cetera.
And the purchase of a site.
Yes. Is it his intention to go ahead on this site? He says there are changes of plans and certain developments. Is there a move now to have this building somewhere else in the city or will it be built on the site which has been purchased for it?
I think the Deputy will have to await the announcement of the Government decision on this.
Question No. 30.
May I ask the Minister the names of the people on the committee and when the last meeting took place?
That is a separate question.
I thought I was a member of the committee but since it has not met for so long I am wondering if there have been any changes. Will the Minister state when the last meeting of the committee took place?
That is a separate question.