157 Mr. Cosgrave asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage Gaeltacht and the Islands her proposals for the Maritime Museum in Dún Laoghaire; the proposals she has for moving it from its present location; and the discussions which have taken place regarding its future. [24506/01]

The Maritime Museum in Dún Laoghaire, County Dublin is an independant establishment, run by the Maritime Institute of Ireland.

I am aware of the Maritime Institute's wish to relocate its collection to a purpose built building but my Department has no statutory responsibility for this institution. Separately, I have offered financial assistance on an exceptional basis towards the cost of urgent repairs to the Mariner's Church, the present location of the museum, subject to certain conditions.