The total number of applications for new library construction and for library refurbishment with my Department is 43. I propose to circulate in the Official Report a tabular statement setting out the requested information on a county by county basis.
This year my Department has an allocation of £2,760,000 available to grant-aid all capital works in respect of libraries.
My Department is currently leading a review of public library policy. The terms of reference for the review cover: the current position of public libraries; the evolving role of public libraries in the areas of information provision and cultural-heritage services; the roles played by the Department of the Environment, An Chomhairle Leabharlanna and local authorities in the development of public library services; financial arrangements for library infrastructure and services.
The review will make recommendations to me concerning how best to develop the public library service.
I look forward to receiving the report of the review later this year.