asked the Minister for Finance the proposals, if any, to introduce new legislation in respect of national monuments particularly in urban areas and if he is satisfied that the present legislation is being effectively administered.

7.

andMr. Donnellan asked the Minister for Finance when it is proposed to introduce legislation to modernise the National Monuments Act; if the heads of a Bill for such legislation have yet been approved by the Government and, if so, when.

I propose, with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 6 and 7 together.

New legislation to replace the existing National Monuments Acts is under consideration. The heads of a Bill have not yet been placed before the Government and, accordingly, I am not in a position to give details of the proposals which might be contained in new legislation. I can say, however, that it is not intended to have separate legislation to deal with urban areas. So far as the present legislation is concerned, I am satisfied that it is being effectively administered.

Is the Minister aware that the Government refused eight months ago even to discuss an Opposition Bill on national monuments on the grounds that legislation of their own was being considered?

New additional staff are examining the proposals necessary for the introduction of new legislation.

When does the Minister expect to be able to present the heads of this legislation to the Government?

I cannot say.

Has the Minister any idea?

No.

Will it be during this session of the Dáil? Will it be before the Government go out of office?

We have employed additional staff for this purpose, something the Deputy did not do when he was in office.

Is the Minister aware that the heads of a Bill existed before this Government took office and it is ridiculous that action has not been taken?

I am not in a position to answer the Deputy.

That is so.