I propose to take Questions Nos. 483 and 486 together.
As the Deputy will be aware, the priorities set out in the Programme for Government for the rationalisation of State Agencies state that rationalisation must be cost effective and lead to a more transparent, accountable and efficient public service. The overriding imperative is the requirement to effect savings and achieve administrative efficiencies in all areas of expenditure and to reduce overheads. This underscores the need for radical streamlining of bodies, including the amalgamation of some bodies, so that public services and functions can be delivered more cost-effectively. It was in this context that the decision was made by Government to amalgamate the National Library and the National Archives. The amalgamation was examined in the context of the Comprehensive Review of Expenditure, a copy of which is published on the website of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. The implications for the two bodies arising from this decision are currently being examined within my Department.