Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 November 2025
1165. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht if he will specifically ringfence funding that will enable the construction and delivery of a library in the Mahon, Blackrock, area which has been without a library space for over 30 years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61261/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe provision of library services, including the provision of library buildings, is primarily a matter for local authorities, in their capacity as library authorities, under the Local Government Act 2001. Accordingly, the delivery of library services in Mahon, Blackrock is primarily a matter for Cork City Council.
In April 2023, my Department invited proposals for funding under the Libraries Capital Programme 2023-2027. I am advised that Cork City Council did not submit a proposal for a library project in Mahon, Blackrock.
In April 2024, the new Libraries Capital Programme for the period 2023-2027 was announced, investing €22.6m in 11 state-of-the-art infrastructure projects and a further €2.6m in 12 next generation mobile library vehicles. As the Programme is now fully committed, there is no scope to ringfence funding to additional projects.
My Department will develop a new Libraries Capital Programme funding call prior to the completion of the 2023-2027 programme. Local authorities will be advised of the call in due course.
