Sir, - Frank McDonald's recent article about Temple Bar contains some truths but is far from representing the whole truth about "Dublin's Cultural Quarter". The distorted perspective he offers your readers is the more regrettable given his call for honesty in assessment of the Temple Bar project.
In pursuit of such honesty, I would like to place on record the following facts. The Ark which is Europe's first purpose built cultural centre for children, though now an independent entity, was initiated by Temple Bar Properties as part of its cultural development plan. In the 20 months since we opened to the public 30,000 children and 7,000 adults have visited The Ark to participate in our programmes. They have come from all social backgrounds and, particularly at this time of year, from many counties.
The daily reality of our work in providing high quality cultural experiences for children is replicated by the distinctive practice of each of the other cultural centres in the area. Frank McDonald labels these centres as "much hyped". The Ark has no interest in hype but neither are we much impressed by exaggeration and half truths.
Any of your readers is welcome to join our free mailing list and thereby receive regular advance information about The Ark's programmes. Perhaps a subsequent visit here will help them to make up their own mind about some of the realities of Temple Bar. - Yours, etc.,
Director,
The Ark,
Eustace St,
Temple Bar,
Dublin 2.