asked the Minister for Education the method of financing libraries in community schools.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Financing of Libraries.
55.
The cost of building and equipping libraries in community schools will be met as part of the capital cost of those schools. My Department will also fund the provision of reference books for these libraries. It is intended to make arrangements for the supply of books for lending purposes with the appropriate local authority library committee in each case.
56.
asked the Minister for Education the method of financing libraries in vocational schools.
57.
asked the Minister for Education the method of financing libraries in secondary schools.
I propose, a Cheann Comhairle, with your permission to take Questions Nos. 56 and 57 together.
I would refer the Deputy to my reply to a similar question on 12th April last. I have nothing to add to that reply.
58.
asked the Minister for Education the method of financing libraries in primary schools.
The library scheme in national schools is financed jointly by my Department and the various local authorities. The State grant is 20p per pupil and is paid subject to the condition that at least 10p per pupil be provided by the local authorities.
Is the Minister not aware that this method of financing is totally inadequate at the present time and will he take steps to ensure that all primary and post primary schools are properly equipped with the necessary books?
No I am satisfied that they are provided with sufficient financial help. In the financial year 1963-64 the Department undertook the task of supplying library books to every national school. Since then we have been making money available and we are building up a very satisfactory situation in regard to libraries in primary schools.