asked the Minister for Finance if he is in a position to indicate when the building of the new Abbey Theatre is likely to commence.

I am informed by the Abbey Theatre authorities that they hope to be able to invite tenders for the new buildings in January next. It is not possible at present to say when actual building may commence.

Could the Minister say who will own the Abbey Theatre when it is completed?

It will be owned by the Abbey Theatre Company.

Does this mean that the £250,000 we passed here out of the Funds of Suitors Bill is being handed over to the Abbey?

The question asks the Minister to indicate when the building is likely to commence.

This is no laughing matter.

"The money doesn't matter."