John O'Donoghue (Kerry South, Fianna Fail)

This package includes the redevelopment of the Abbey Theatre and the National Concert Hall, the complete remodelling of the Theatre Royal in Wexford and the substantial refurbishment of the Gaiety Theatre in Dublin. These are flagship projects which will greatly enhance the quality of our cultural infrastructure. The Abbey Theatre is at the centre of Ireland's theatrical and cultural life. It has been recognised for some time that its existing premises fall short of the requirements of a vibrant national theatre. A suitable site has now been made available for the redevelopment of the theatre by the Dublin Docklands Development Authority. The OPW has completed the necessary site investigations at George's Dock and has advised that it will be a suitable location for the national theatre.

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