asked the Taoiseach the present position regarding the provision of (1) temporary accommodation for the National Archives and (2) permanent headquarters for them; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Premises have been obtained at 58-64 Upper Dominick Street, Dublin 1, to meet the accommodation needs for the National Archives on a temporary basis.

A scheme for a purpose-built, permanent headquarters for the National Archives at a State-owned site at Smithfield was investigated some years ago. In more recent times, the possibility of adapting an existing building, including one located at the Custom House Docks Site, to serve as a permanent repository for the National Archives, was also evaluated. A final decision on the matter will be made in the light of experience of the use of the Dominick Street premises and in the light of the availability of financial resources.

I fully appreciate that our archival heritage must be safeguarded and the provison of suitable accommodation is the key factor in that regard. I will ensure that my Department and the Office of Public Works monitor those needs closely so as to anticipate and alleviate any difficulties.

I welcome the statement by the Taoiseach about the availability of temporary premises and the plans being made for permanent premises. Can the Taoiseach say when the temporary premises will be capable of taking in files which are ready for deposit there?

More or less straight away. I will keep the Deputy informed.

4.