Seán Sherlock
Question:1496. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she has received any plans to establish a library in an area (details supplied). [36583/23]
View answerTuesday, 25 July 2023
Questions (1496)
Written answers
The delivery of public library services, including the provision of library premises, is a matter for each local authority in accordance with the Local Government Act, 2001. Accordingly, the delivery of library services in Blackrock Mahon is primarily a matter for Cork City Council.
I have been informed by Cork City Council that a potential site has been identified in principle for a library in Blackrock Mahon and discussions regarding this are ongoing between the local authority and CETB. My Department invited proposals for funding under a new Libraries Capital Programme in April 2023, but Cork City Council did not submit a proposal for Blackrock Mahon on this occasion as discussions had not been concluded before the submission date.
My Department previously advised Cork City Council to consider submitting an application for funding for Blackrock Mahon Library to the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF), which is administered by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. This fund was established to support sustainable development through the regeneration and rejuvenation of Ireland's five cities and other large towns.
Cork City Council have been advised of the requirement to simultaneously consult with my Department and the Local Government Management Agency, prior to the development of plans for a new public library in this location. They will then be required to submit a proposal to my Department for technical assessment to ensure that the project complies with the 'Public Library National Standards and Benchmarks' which guides the development of the public library service.
Cork City Council expect to be in a position to submit this documentation to my Department in the last quarter of 2023.