Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)

I ask the Minister to grasp the opportunity because it may not be there indefinitely. Given that next year is the 25th anniversary of the concert hall, it is appropriate that a decision should be made as soon as possible so we will have a concert hall that will represent the musical tastes of the people of Ireland, provide a venue for the best of both Irish and international talent and which is befitting of the progress made in this country. At this stage, we have neither a national theatre nor a national concert hall comparable to other cities in Europe. As we have fallen totally behind in this regard, an initiative should be taken to ensure the concert hall will be provided as soon as possible.

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