§ MR. O'DONNELLasked the First Lord of the Treasury, Whether Government will purchase the Irish manuscripts in the Ashburnham Collection, and cause them to be placed in some fit locality in Ireland for the use of scholars and students; whether it is the intention of the Government to carry out the provisions of the Irish University Education Act of 1879, which provides that, within twelve months after the first appointment of the Senate of the Royal University, a scheme shall be prepared for the erection of buildings which shall include a library; and, whether Government will consider the propriety of commencing the realisation of such library by placing the Irish manuscripts of the Ashburnham Collection at the disposal of the Senate of the Royal University of Ireland for the use of scholars and students?
MR. GLADSTONESir, as to that part of the Question which refers to the Ashburnham Collection, communications are still passing, and I cannot say whether it will be in our power to obtain portions of it or not. With respect to the disposition of the Irish portion of it, if the Collection should be acquired, an intimation has already been given that the Government think the suggestion well worthy of consideration that Ireland should be the repository of that portion of the Collection. I am informed that a Library upon an approved plan is contemplated for the Royal University Buildings now in course of erection or adoption.