asked the Minister for Education if it is proposed to expand accommodation in the manuscripts department of the National Library.
38.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - National Library Archives.
37.
asked the Minister for Education what action the Government propose to take on the Report and Recommendation on Archives of the Irish Committee of Historical Sciences.
With your permission, a Cheann Chomhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 37 and 38 together.
I recently received a deputation from the Irish Manuscripts Commission and they discussed with me various aspects of the question relating to the preservation and custody of historical records and their availability for purposes of research. I am having a full examination made of the problem with a view to taking such appropriate action as is required.
Regarding Question No. 37, when were any extensions made? Is it not true there were no improvements made there since the turn of the century? As regards Question No. 38, has this report gone to the Taoiseach? I am informed that it has.
All I can say is to repeat what I have said in my answer here.
As regards improvements, there have been no extensions there for years.
Perhaps the Deputy would put down a question. I have not got any information on that.
39.
asked the Minister for Education if it is proposed to appoint professional archivists to the National Library.
I consider that the present structure of the professional staff of the National Library is suitable and that a highly competent and trained staff of honours graduates has been recruited through the existing recruitment procedure. I see no good reason for changing the titles of the staff who work in the Department of Manuscripts from keeper, assistant keeper and assistant librarian.
I may add, for the information of the Deputy, that my predecessor appointed a consultant in May, 1969, to carry out a survey of the National Library and report to him on how it can best carry out its functions. I understand that this report which covers every aspect of the work of the library will soon be completed.