§ Mr. MaginnisTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what yearly contributions the Irish Republic has made towards(a) the maintenance, (b) the operating costs and (c) the staffing costs at Maryfield; and what proportion these contributions are of the total costs within each of these areas.
§ Mr. Tom King[holding answer 27 January 1988]: The Irish Government do not pay maintenance costs directly, but rather a share of rent for the secretariat building. In the last financial year, their contribution was £32,000. They also contribute to operating expenses in varying proportions, reflecting the use they make of each facility. The cost to the Irish Government of their staff is a matter for them.