Vol. 543 No. 4
15 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage Gaeltacht and the Islands the progress made to date by the high level group examining all issues relating to the National Concert Hall at Earlsfort Terrace; when she expects the group to report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27143/01]
The high level group has recently completed its report on the National Concert Hall and related matters. The group has presented its report to me and to the Minister for Education and Science and it is now receiving consideration at ministerial level.
In the context of the report of the high level group being examined by several Ministers, does the Minister envisage this project and the new landmark national theatre developing in tandem or does she regard them as two separate and distinct developments?
While they are both very respected national institutions, they are separate and distinct developments in the sense that they cater to different audiences. It can be very useful to look at proposals in the light of changing circumstances such as changes to audiences or the numbers of people who want to access both institutions.
As we all know, the National Concert Hall has been experiencing difficulties with accommodation, which is not suitable. The backstage accommodation is inadequate to say the least and the auditorium is not large enough. On-stage performance space, in particular, is very cramped especially if it has to accommodate large performing groups such as a full strength symphony orchestra. A second auditorium is also very much needed.
This is the reason I wanted to ensure a high level group reported back to me. The Deputy will be interested in the composition of the group. It is small but prestigious, consisting of the Secretary General of my Department, the Secretary General of the Department of Education and Science and the Chairman of the Office of Public Works. Its composition demonstrates interest and expertise. Once I have had an opportunity to examine its recommendations and views, decisions will be made.
The group consulted a wide range of people. Obviously, it met the board and director of the National Concert Hall. It also met the Dublin city manager and planning officials, the president of UCD and his advisers and the chairman and chief executive of the Higher Education Authority. We are trying to find out how best to address the ongoing issues for the National Concert Hall. It is opportune to congratulate those involved in the National Concert Hall for the work they have done in the 20 years since it moved to Earlsfort Terrace in 1981.
Will the Minister confirm that the State-owned site at Infirmary Road-Conyngham Road is still very much in the picture as a potential site for the relocated National Concert Hall? When does she expect decisions on the future of the National Concert Hall to be taken and implemented?
Obviously, I would like the matter to proceed as quickly as possible and the decisions will be forthcoming as soon as possible. The report is being considered not only by me but also by my colleague, the Minister for Education and Science, given that his Department is particularly interested in the position of UCD in Earlsfort Terrace. I confirm that the site at Infirmary Road-Conyngham Road is one of a number of options considered by the high level group.
Will the Minister indicate if a third option, the site of the old Capitol cinema on O'Connell Street, is being investigated? The building houses a sort of bazaar, selling items such as rugs. O'Connell Street could be a suitable site for a concert hall.
I do not believe it is one of the sites considered for the National Concert Hall in this report.
