asked the Minister for Finance whether the grip-strips fitted to the upper flights of the staircase in the new wing of Leinster House mean that there is an intention to carpet these stairs above the point to which carpet was specially laid before the visit of President Reagan; if so, the necessity for this carpeting, and the amount it will cost including time and material; whether he has noticed that the carpet laid for the presidential visit less than a year ago is already showing bad signs of wear; and whether he will reverse this extravagant and unnecessary project.
Written Answers. - Carpeting of Leinster House.
576.
At the request of the Leinster House authorities carpet is being laid on the main staircase of the office block at an estimated cost of £10,947.00 inclusive of VAT. The existing carpet covering one flight only was laid before President Reagan's visit. Due to the urgency at the time under-felt was not provided, a factor which has contributed to more than usual wear. Carpet is considered appropriate on the staircase as an extension of the carpeted corridors and stairways elsewhere in Leinster House. Any question of reversal of the work is a matter initially for the Leinster House authorities.