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Dáil
‹ Ceisteanna ar Pholasaí nó ar Reachtaíocht - Questions on Policy or Legislation

The Complex arts facility lease

Summary

Deputy McDonald warned that The Complex arts facility in Dublin’s north inner city could be lost when its lease expires. The Taoiseach said he would engage the relevant Ministers and seek an update, and he confirmed he would communicate back to the Deputy.

This is D-day for The Complex arts facility in Dublin's north inner city. At midnight, its lease expires and, as it stands, we risk losing what is a key project for our community. This issue has gone on and on for years and the project has been passed from Billy to Jack. Promises of intervention have been made and have amounted to nothing. Central government, Dublin City Council and the Arts Council all have a role play.

At this final hour, we need all concerned to get their act together and save this project. Passing the buck needs to stop. This complex has proven to be a valuable resource and its contribution has been widely recognised, including by the Government's Dublin city task force, which acknowledged the central role of The Complex in sustaining artistic and community life in the area. We are simply not prepared to lose it. The arts community and wider community have made their feelings very clear. The Complex must be saved.

Comment on this

I thank the Deputy for raising the issue. It is important. I will engage with the relevant Ministers. Dublin City Council has a role and the private sector is also involved. There is an issue to be resolved. From the perspective of the arts community and citizens generally, the role of the centre, which is of benefit to generations and is in the public interest, is one we would like to retain. I will get an update from the relevant Minister on this.

Comment on this

Could the Taoiseach communicate with me on that?

Comment on this

Yes.

Comment on this