Absolutely impressive – that would begin to describe the opening event of the Convention Centre Dublin. Neither expense nor effort was spared to convince those present that the new congress centre is superb: we saw dazzling presentations in the new auditorium, were delighted by a lavish dinner, and enjoyed excellent entertainment, from old Irish traditionals to the contemporary sound of the Westlife boys band.

One of the most spirited speeches during the opening was delivered by Mary Hanafin, TD Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport, who passionately described the pride that the Irish – and the Dubliners, in particular – feel now that they have such an architectural pearl. But in addition to the Irish spirit, she also emphasised the Irish ‘ease of business’. Organisers get things done easily in Ireland. No rigmarole, head straight for the solution – that’s the no nonsense Irish approach.

Get going with your congress!

And that straightforward mentality – even more than the Convention Centre’s amazing facilities – just might be the great asset of the new congress centre. Congress organisers sometimes look for a perk or a bit of an incentive from the local government. Well, there’s a very good chance that you’ll find a listening ear in Dublin. And that your congress will be carried along by diligent Irish workman’s hands.

A memorable moment during the inaugural presentations was the spot for architect Ken Roche, the Pritzker award-winning Irish architect, who developed this landmark building in the heart of Dublin City. The eternally young brain of this hale and hearty eighty-year-old created the stunning glass-fronted atrium that runs the full height of the building – providing spectacular views of the River Liffey, Dublin city centre and the Wicklow mountains.

We’ve already provided lots of figures on the Convention Centre Dublin in previous editions of our newsletter, and you can find everything on the website. In a nutshell: a multi-functional venue, with a capacity of 8 to 8,000, the CCD will host a variety of events, big or small, situated right in the heart of Dublin city. The venue includes extremely versatile meeting spaces with 22 purpose-built meeting rooms, a 2,000-seat auditorium, 4,500 square metres of exhibition space, and banqueting facilities for up to 5,000 guests.

Alternatives to the CCD
Special venues in Dublin
Social programmes & activities in Dublin