‘Make it a beautiful day’: TD appeals to Taoiseach to prevent demolition of U2 school hall

Independent TD Barry Heneghan invoked U2 lyrics in a plea to Taoiseach Micheál Martin, urging him to intervene and prevent the demolition of the school hall where the iconic band U2 held its first performances. The hall is located at Mount Temple Comprehensive School, U2's alma mater on Dublin's northside.

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until an independent feasibility study or meaningful consultation is carried out

Heneghan requested that the Taoiseach pause the demolition until an independent feasibility study or meaningful consultation could be conducted. He stressed the importance of this action before an "irreversible decision" is made regarding the hall. Describing the school as "one of Ireland’s greatest success stories," he noted that while development is not opposed, concerns exist about whether the hall could be retained for refurbishment or adapted for reuse.

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one of Ireland’s greatest success stories

Campaigning parents and former pupils asked Heneghan to raise the issue, highlighting the hall's decades-long role in providing a stage for young people to build confidence and discover talents beyond academics. Quoting U2 songs, Heneghan asked the Taoiseach, "Will you intervene and make it a beautiful day for the next generation of musicians?"

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For decades, the hall has given young people a stage to perform, build confidence and discover talent that cannot always be measured in the exam hall.

In response, the Taoiseach acknowledged U2's "phenomenal" legacy and their recent significant philanthropic contribution to the Music Generation program. He mentioned a €20 million investment by U2, the government, and the Ireland Funds to support music education for disadvantaged youth. However, he stated he was unaware of the specific details concerning the school hall and the school board's plans for a new facility, suggesting that any new space might capture the "magic" of U2's origins.

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This will happen with or without you, Taoiseach. Will you intervene and make it a beautiful day for the next generation of musicians?