asked the Minister for Education when it is proposed to establish a national maritime museum.
Ceisteanna—Questions Oral Answers. - National Maritime Museum.
40.
There are no plans at present for the establishment of a national maritime museum.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary say if he considers the establishment of such a museum is desirable? If a voluntary group were to establish such a museum, could the Parliamentary Secretary make funds available?
Museum policy is at present under very active examination. I have received a deputation myself from the Maritime Institute of Ireland who were interested in this matter. We wrote to them requesting further information on 15th August. The honorary secretary of the society replied on 10th September to the effect that the Department's letter was considered at the institute's council meeting on 6th September and that certain members of the Institute had undertaken to furnish the additional information sought by me and that this would be forwarded as soon as it became available. I have not since heard from the institute which seems to be the main body concerned with this matter but I understand that they are giving what is admittedly a very complex question very considerable thought and I look forward to hearing from them. At this stage I would not be in a position to make any commitment such as that indicated in the Deputy's supplementary.
It is under active consideration because steps were taken some years ago——
It is not, until we get the information from the institute.