asked the Minister for Education if he is aware that the geological collection which bears directly on geological maps of Ireland preserved in the national geological survey has lain in neglected cellars not far from the museum; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

39.

asked the Minister for Education if, in view of the enormous growth in the importance of geological science in recent times, he will indicate the steps that have been taken to have the geological department in the National Museum reconstituted and reopened to the public.

With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 38 and 39 together.

I understand that new accommodation is projected for the Geological Survey in which suitable provision will be made for the survey's collections. Accommodation difficulties also necessitated the removal of the geological collection of the National Museum to off-site storage. The question of resolving the museum's space problems is currently engaging the active attention of the Department and of the Office of Public Works.