asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether, in view of the urgent need for a youth hostel in Limerick city, he will be prepared to make a special grant available towards its cost; and, if not, why.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Limerick Youth Hostel.
3.
Bord Fáilte administer a scheme of grants to An Óige for the improvement and extension of youth hostel accommodation. The levels of grants are 80 per cent in the western areas of the country and 50 per cent elsewhere. The 50 per cent level applies to Limerick City.
I am informed by Bord Fáilte that An Óige have been in communication with them about a grant for a hostel in Limerick but that the site proposed would not qualify for an 80 per cent grant as it is not in the western area. Bord Fáilte believe that it should be possible to find a location for a hostel within reasonable walking distance of the city which would qualify for the higher rate of grant.
Is it not a fact that the Minister received a deputation some months ago from An Óige, which was accompanied by Deputies from the constituency, and that he was then in full agreement with the submissions made by the deputation. Further, is it not a fact that the Minister agreed to take the matter up with the Minister for Finance with a view to securing an 80 per cent grant? Can the Minister say why he wrote to the Minister for Justice a few weeks ago saying he could not see his way to requesting the Minister for Finance to give this grant?
This is only a question of going a mile or two outside the city. It is simply a question of location.
Is it not a fact that a 100 per cent grant was given to the youth hostels in Dublin and Cork and is it not grossly unfair that Limerick has been offered a 50 per cent grant?
That is not true. The Deputy might facilitate this matter by coming up with a deputation and discussing the matter. If the proper location could be obtained, the 80 per cent grant would be given and that would end the matter.
Could the Minister say whether he would be prepared to assist us again in approaching the Minister for Finance with a view to getting a sympathetic hearing?
There is no question of a sympathetic hearing. This is how things are in relation to the grants.
There is a sense of injustice in relation to Limerick.
They are fortunate to be able to get an 80 per cent grant so easily.