asked the Minister for Education why he refused to sanction a second library assistant for the Regional Technical College in Athlone: why the library did not open until 15th January, 1974; and if he will state his plans for the future development of the library.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Athlone Library Assistant.
90.
Mr. R. Burke
I did not refuse to sanction a second library assistant for the Regional Technical College in Athlone. The date of opening of the library was decided locally and was not subject to my sanction.
Plans for the future development of the library are a matter in the first instance for the board of management of the college.
Would the Minister not agree that the date of opening the library depends on backing from his Department with regard to books and librarians? I would like to ask why the Minister's Department did not sanction the employment of the second library assistant for Athlone?
Mr. R. Burke
The regional college libraries are in an early state of development. The staff provided by the county authorities are occupied to a great extent on the classification and cataloguing of new books. In these circumstances the hours of opening are 9.30 a.m. to 5.0 p.m. That was not the decision of the Department. It is reasonable to assume that when the work of cataloguing is completed the staff will be able to meet all reasonable demands in relation to opening.
Is there a specific book grant for the Regional Technical College in Athlone or is it generally for library work?
Mr. R. Burke
That is a separate question. I will answer it if the Deputy puts down a further question.