asked the Minister for Finance if he will state the number of private dwelling-houses in Dublin occupied by Government Departments; and, further, if it is contemplated to have suitable Government offices built in the near future to house those staffs at present occupying private buildings.

There are 64 former private dwelling houses in Dublin occupied by Government Departments, not including Lenister House, Tyrone House, Aldborough House and Talbot House.

As regards the second part of the question, it is not desirable with the present shortage of materials to undertake in the near future the building of suitable accommodation to rehouse these staffs.

Does the Parliamentary Secretary not think the position has been reached that acquisition of private dwelling houses by Government Departments should cease in view of the shortage of housing accommodation for the ordinary public?

How long have you been Minister or Parliamentary Secretary?

The State, of course, has to be served in these matters.