The Genie Gazette Vol. The problem will not be solved by creating yet another holding library in Dublin. You imply that inquirers are able and willing to do the research themselves. In the days when this merely involved reading down the columns of a register this may well have been the case. But when it is a matter of accessing a complex computer database, people would much rather pay a modest fee to have it done for them.
Computer programmes are all too easily copied or corrupted.
Interest in genealogy is rapidly expanding. What people want above all things is the opportunity to talk over their problems with someone of experience. But this service should be provided by the Register General. The process of computerising records should be completed as soon as possible, if necessary by going commercial. Readers may be forgiven for the sense of deja vu they might feel on this issue.