Want to keep a close eye on the next government? Number 11 Dunloe Hall is just the place to do so, says Bernice Harrison

IF THERE'S a single downside to owning 11 Dunloe Hall, a splendid apartment in a restored Georgian building on Merrion Street, it's that at times of national crises - or even, say, during a general election - the only Bird you'll hear outside your livingroom window will be Charlie.

The news reporter - or one of his colleagues - will be on your doorstep, booming away for the nine o'clock news with the magnificent gates of Government Buildings in the background.

The three tall windows in the livingroom of number 11 Dunloe Hall look directly across the street to the portals of power, while those other centres of influence, Doheny & Nesbitts and the Shelbourne Bar, are only a stroll around the corner.

Inside, the three-bedroom first floor apartment has 200sq m (2,150sq ft), so it's bigger than most family homes with proportions on a very grand scale.

The large livingroom has those three tall sash windows to one side, and a further window in another wall, as well as high ceilings and a marble fireplace. Doors open off it into a formal diningroom connecting to a good-sized eat-in kitchen.

All the bedrooms are doubles, and each has a shower en suite and a utility room. The main bedroom is on the Merrion Street side and its two windows also enjoy the view across to Government Buildings.

The apartment has been a corporate let for the past few years and is decorated in a traditional, period style that creates a refined atmosphere and suits the rooms.

There was talk in the early 1990s that the State should retain this Georgian terrace and maybe convert it into a home for the Taoiseach - our 10 Downing Street.

But that was in a different time when money was scarce and the building was sold and sympathetically converted into an apartment block complete with lift and car-parking.

While the location of this apartment would make it a perfect pied-á-terre for a top politician - with space for some classy entertaining - the price tag of €3 million will put it beyond the reach of a TD's salary. The stamp duty alone will be over €250,000. The annual service charge is over €6,000 per annum. No 11 Dunloe Hall is for sale by private treaty through Lisney.