Supporting the National Archives

Hats off to the head of the National Archives and his staff for the indispensable work they are doing, preserving our nation's heritage.

Another heartfelt appreciation goes to the Friends of the National Archives. These two entities are not only the backbone of what "we" as a nation could avail ourselves of but they are also giving an impeccable service.

I had an opportunity of taking part in two separate events, a public lecture by President Guido de Marco which, needless to say, was excellent, and, also, the launching of the new microfilming project, which was also very well presented by the head of the National Archives.

However, I feel it is necessary now to ask the following questions:

How can we deliver a professional service when the staff at the National Archives totals only seven?

How can we provide a professional service without adequate funding? The National Archives gets only Lm200 and upon request. Investing in professionally trained personnel is of utmost importance. Is this being sought?

Great work is being done by the Friends of the Archives. These extremely dedicated people are working wholeheartedly to raise funds for different projects in order to preserve the nation's heritage.

However, the authorities have been moving too slowly in developing their vision for the archives.

In the case of the National Archives, there is the time factor that would need to be taken into account.

It is time to give the National Archives the attention the place deserves.

Those of you who watched the film Harry Potter and the Chamber of the Secrets may recall one of the last scenes when Dumbledore says these last words to Harry: "It is not our abilities that show what we truly are, it is our choices".