Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Yes. As I have outlined, section 7 of the Bill provides that the "principal functions" of the National Concert Hall shall be "to provide and operate, having regard to international standards and good practice, the national venue for the performance, appreciation and enjoyment of musical, creative, artistic and cultural activities including the promotion of concerts and recitals of artistic, educational and cultural value". Earlsfort Terrace is where the National Concert Hall's home is, but there is nothing to prevent it from having performances elsewhere or from moving around the country. The Deputy raised the question of whether the National Concert Hall will acquire properties elsewhere in the country at some point down the road but our focus has to be on where the hall is based at present. I know the National Concert Hall is very concerned to ensure Earlsfort Terrace is identified as its home. When officials from the hall go abroad to look for philanthropic funding, etc., it is important for them to be able to mention an address to show the people they meet that they are dealing with a permanent entity. We took legal advice on this matter. The National Concert Hall is satisfied that its requirements will be met if this amendment is made and the legislation includes the words "situated, for the time being, at Earlsfort Terrace in the city of Dublin".

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