asked the Minister for Finance the total amount paid in respect of the renting of offices for use by Government Departments in Dublin for the year ended 31st March, 1972.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Government Office Rental.
26.
The total amount of rent paid for Government offices in Dublin for the period in question was approximately £590,000.
How does this figure compare with the figure for the year ended 31st March, 1971?
I would need notice of that.
Will the Parliamentary Secretary state whether any other offices have been rented since 31st March, 1972, and if so by what Departments and what are the rents?
That is a separate question.
I would need notice of that.
I am referring to the Department of Posts and Telegraphs. I will put down a question for next week.
Does the Parliamentary Secretary agree that a figure of almost £600,000 for rent for offices is extremely high? Would he not think that it would be proper policy for the Government to acquire space and build, rather than paying these colossal rents?
I dealt with this matter in introducing my Estimate to which I am replying at present. The whole matter is under examination and I imagine there will be some change in policy in the near future.
Like the devil, we have to live with your sins of the past.
Conservation of capital and priorities are very important and the Government are faced with them at all times.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary detail the financial arrangements for the new Department of Agriculture?
That is a separate question.
I would need notice of that.
In his reply?
If it has been raised in the debate I will deal with it.