Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 July 2013
494. Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide the necessary funding to upgrade the windows, doors and roof of Killarney library, Killarney, County Kerry and if he will arrange for immediate improvements to disability access to enable the library to comply with regulations of the Barcelona agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31497/13]
View answerUnder Section 78 of the Local Government Act 2001, the provision of premises and facilities in the public library service is a matter for each local authority in its capacity as a library authority.
My Department provided funding towards the capital costs of approved new libraries, the refurbishment of existing libraries, and mobile libraries and delivery vans. In this regard, in 2008 my Department requested Library Authorities to provide details of priorities for library development within their area. In its response, Kerry County Council placed Killarney branch library as its third ranked priority. My Department has not received an application for funding in relation to the refurbishment of Killarney library and the 2013 allocation is fully committed.
In 2005, the multi-annual Disability Services programme to assist delivery of the National Disability Strategy by the Department, local authorities and bodies under the aegis of the Department was commenced. Funding was allocated annually to local authorities on the basis of priority areas identified by them in implementation plans. The programme was completed in 2009 with one year’s extra funding provided by the Department in 2010. Over €77 million was provided to local authorities between 2005 and 2010. The programme has now ceased and there are no plans for a further scheme.
