When this motion was before the House some time ago certain matters were raised upon it relating to the Abbey Theatre and other grants. I am not certain whether it is thought desirable to pursue that matter now.
Vote 21—Miscellaneous Expenses (Resumed).
Question again proposed—"That a sum not exceeding £6,755 be granted to complete the sum necessary to defray the charge which will come in course of payment during the year ending on the 31st day of March, 1936, for certain Miscellaneous Expenses, including certain Grants-in-Aid."—(Minister for Finance).
Agreed.
I want to ask some questions arising out of this Vote. For instance, what is the explanation of the increased sum for the Zoological Society, the society having charge of the Zoological Gardens? Is the Minister satisfied that that society is doing its work properly? There have been general complaints to the effect that it is an ill-kept place and that it is anything but a credit to the city or the country. It is not an asset to the Phoenix Park. No one knows exactly what the purpose of the institution is, whether it is an aid to the study of zoology or whether it is meant to provide recreation for children. I do not think the Vote should be passed without some explanation. I think we ought to be told something about the attitude of the society and as to whether or not any check is kept on its activities.
I protest against the statement made by Deputy Moore, which, I think, was made in ignorance and uttered in malice. The Zoological Society is one of the institutions in Dublin of which a person who knows anything about it would be very proud. It is kept going very largely by the self-sacrifice and contributions of individuals. The grant from the State is appreciated, but it ought to be largely increased. A sweeping statement uttered in ignorance was made by Deputy Moore to the effect that it does not contribute to science. That is entirely untrue.
I was hoping to have at least three minutes to deal with the principal industry of this country——
May I just say this: I have a peculiar feeling that I should like to voice on this Vote for the Zoological Society. It is that many freak specimens of animals are free in this country that should be under control.
I suppose the Deputy will stand for that Constitution at the next general election. It is not possible, of course, to deal with all the points made in the few minutes left to me. I do not want, however, to enter into the merits or demerits of the Zoological Society. I assume, since Deputy Moore was moved to raise the matter, that he must be rather dissatisfied with the position as it exists. I am quite sure he would not raise the matter out of malice. There must be a public-spirited motive behind it. Deputy Moore is not a person accustomed to oppose vexatiously grants of that sort. However, time does not permit us to go into the question fully.
Time is only made for slaves.
Deputy O'Sullivan asked for three minutes. Will Deputy Bennett agree to let him have it?
I should like to withdraw the word "malice" that I used in connection with Deputy Moore's statement.
Question put and agreed to.