asked the Minister for Finance when the conversion of the Great Hall, University College, Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin, to a concert hall will be undertaken; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - University Hall Conversion.
13.
Planning is proceeding for the proposed conversion of the Great Hall in University College, Dublin, for use as a concert hall and it is expected that the contract documents to enable tenders to be sought will be completed in about a year's time.
It is very surprising to think that it will be years before planning permission will be given. How long after that will it be before we get possession of the hall—when I say "we" I mean the public? Has agreement been reached with the college authorities as to when they will leave the hall?
A steering committee have been set up composed of representatives of RTE, the Departments of the Taoiseach and Finance and the Office of Public Works to oversee the project. There is a lot of technical matter involved, particularly regarding acoustics. I am told that if all goes well the conversion should commence in 1977. The time-table is dependent on the availability of the Great Hall. The UCD authorities have agreed to hand over the required area subject to the proviso that they can get space for the conduct of examinations. It is expected this space will be available——
Roughly which year, 1977 or 1978?
It is hoped the conversion will start in 1977. That is as near a forecast as I can give.