asked the Minister for Finance if it is proposed to offer financial help towards the restoration of the Olympia Theatre, Dublin; and, if so, the extent to which such assistance will be given.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Olympia Theatre, Dublin.
37.
I am examining the matter at present. Certain inquiries and consultations with the Arts Council have to be completed before a decision is taken on whether State aid may be provided for the reconstruction of the theatre.
Is the Minister aware that the building is deteriorating very rapidly and it may not be there if the Minister delays too long in making a grant available?
As the Deputy is probably aware, an application for a grant was received in the week immediately before Christmas. There are several matters still being inquired into by the applicants and, necessarily, by the State, but there will be no avoidable delay in so far as the State is concerned in coming to the appropriate decision.
Is the Minister favourably disposed towards the application?
I am well disposed towards the arts and the theatre, in particular.
And this particular application?
To all the arts. The arts know no boundaries.
I am talking about the application referred to in the question.
The Minister is an artful dodger.
Has the Minister got the lolly?