asked the Minister for Education if he will introduce a scheme to provide a library service for all post-primary schools.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Schools Library Service.
65.
Mr. R. Burke
The question of the introduction of a general scheme of grants for the provision of books for libraries in secondary schools is still under review. Accordingly I am not yet in a position to make a statement in regard to it.
As this matter has been under review for a considerable time, will the Minister state when he hopes to be in a position to give a decision on this matter?
Mr. R. Burke
I am not in a position to say at the moment.
Is it not a fact that the Minister has at his disposal from the Library Council the figures necessary for such a scheme? Surely it is a question merely of the finances involved. As this scheme is necessary, will the Minister not make a decision in the matter?
Mr. R. Burke
The Deputy should be able to draw his own conclusion. I am not in a position at the moment to make the change he has suggested.
The Department are broke.
Mr. R. Burke
It is not a question of the Department being broke. This is a question of a new development.
It is a necessary scheme.
Mr. R. Burke
I do not think it was fair for the Deputy to use the word "broke".
"Financial embarrassment" would sound better.
I am calling Question No. 66.