asked the Minister for the Environment if he proposes in respect of the celebration by Dublin city of its Millennium in 1988 that the Government will make a specific and precise contribution towards the improvement of the environment in the immediate vicinity of the Houses of the Oireachtas buildings currently located in Leinster House, Dublin 2; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Environmental Improvement.
33.
The Government have already made significant contributions towards the celebration of the Dublin Millennium in 1988. In the case of my own Department grants of £500,000 have been made available for major improvements to Grafton Street and O'Connell Street. In addition £700,000 has been made available through Dublin Promotions Organisation Ltd., the company co-ordinating the celebration, for the sponsorship of a diverse range of projects. I am aware that the Commissioners of Public Works, who have responsibility for the buildings and grounds comprising the Houses of the Oireachtas, and Dublin Corporation who are the local authority for the area, are both making special efforts to maintain high standards throughout the city during the year. The Government have no specific proposals for additional improvements to the area surrounding the Houses of the Oireachtas.