Vol. 417 No. 6
69 Mr. McCartan asked the Minister for the Environment if he will outline, (a) his proposals for the development of library services in the coming year and (b) the way in which the substantial reduction in budgetary support for this area will be accommodated in the coming year; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
While the development of the library service generally is a matter for the relevant local authorities, a total of £2 million is being provided by my Department to assist in funding of the service in 1992. This includes £1.25 million in capital funding and £0.75 million for non capital purposes. These allocations will ensure that steady progress will be maintained in the development of the service despite the difficult economic circumstances. Priority in allocating the capital available must go to projects already in progress. Proposals for new building projects will be considered having regard to the available finance, and needs and priorities as between different areas.
