Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I understood that the National Museum required 650,000 to continue to operate as heretofore notwithstanding the constraints it is now under. I also understand that the National Library had indicated that it needed a 20% increase in its level of funding to be able to contain the additional pressure it is under due to the increased number of visitors. That is the extent of the commitment the Minister is being asked to make now. I very much welcome her statement that she shares our view that the public should have free access to these institutions. The institutions enrich Irish society. It is a great pleasure to stand outside this building and see the throngs of young people who visit these institutions daily. Long may that continue.

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