Vol. 537 No. 2
85 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage Gaeltacht and the Islands if her attention has been drawn to the concerns expressed in recent reports of the National Archive Advisory Council over the delay in the extension of the National Archive premises in Bishop Street, Dublin 8; when the premises will be extended; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15725/01]
In its recently published report for 1999, the National Archives Advisory Council indicated its support for a new design approach to the proposed extension for the National Archives brought forward by Office of Public Works consultants. They also expressed concern that the considerable delay already experienced in this matter should not be further extended.
I share the council's concern at the delay that has taken place. My Department has actively pursued the matter with the Department of Finance and I am pleased to say that the necessary sanction has recently been secured to proceed with the full development of the site subject to the potential, if any, for a public private partnership on the project being explored by the Office of Public Works.
