A dispute has arisen over the type of activities which can be carried on at an interpretative centre for intercultural activity in Co Donegal by the operators of the centre, the High Court heard yesterday.
Proceedings have been brought against the council by Grianán an Aileach Interpretative Centre Co Ltd, which runs the centre at Speenbogue, Burt, Co Donegal. The company is seeking a number of orders. They include prohibiting the council stopping the use of the centre for nights of intercultural activities to include the presentation of music throughout the ages in New Orleans, music demonstrating the link between modern country music and Irish traditional music, music from the Caribbean and music reflective of Victorian/Dickensian Christmases. Ms Una Fullerton, a director, said a development and marketing plan was submitted to the council. Planning permission was granted. The council had decided that the function room could be used for intercultural activity but it had put a particular narrow construction on the activities.Mr James Harley, a senior planner with the council, said concerns were expressed that the premises would be used as a function room/nightclub/for weddings and other late-night events. The objection was not based on cultural distinctions.
The hearing continues tomorrow.