A Programme for a Partnership Government explicitly expresses support for craft and cottage industries. The Craft Granary, a wonderful centre in the town of Cahir, is under serious threat of closure. A community employment or CE scheme operates in the centre under the auspices of the Southern Regional Assembly. The Craft Granary gives an outlet to many arts and crafts people and hosts many arts exhibitions and craft fairs. There is great concern about the future of the centre and its excellent staff who do a top-class job in a wonderful building. The centre gives major exposure to groups in Tipperary. Will the Minister seek reassurance from the Southern Regional Assembly that this centre will be kept open to retain and grow the arts and crafts industries in County Tipperary?

Is the Minister in a position to answer the question?

I am not, unfortunately, because I do not have details of the reasons this CE scheme is in difficulty. I will convey Deputy Mattie McGrath's concerns to the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection, Deputy Regina Doherty, who has responsibility for CE schemes.