asked the Taoiseach if he is aware of the concern which exists in regard to the housing of the national archives; if he will consult with the appropriate interested bodies with a view to approving a suitable location for all national archives; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Housing of National Archives.
3.
I am aware of the concern expressed regarding the housing of the national archives.
This matter is being actively considered at the moment by all the Departments concerned.
In considering this matter, will the Tánaiste ensure that valuable books at present in the King's Inns Library will be retained and that part of the discussions will involve consulting the benchers of the King's Inns as well as the representatives of the other national libraries, such as Trinity, the National Library and UCD before a decision is taken?
I shall draw the Taoiseach's attention to what the Deputy has said. The Deputy might like to know that a committee has been formed representing the Departments of Education and Finance and the Office of Public Works which will soon begin to examine proposals for taking care of public records and archives. We hope this committee, because it represents different Departments with responsibility for different sections of the archives, will be able to make some useful proposals particularly in regard to the National Library.
Perhaps in that connection the fact that at present part of the King's Inns building is used for the registry of deeds might be taken into account and an effort made to house archives of a valuable character in one building?
I shall draw the attention of the Taoiseach to that.