COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL
MEETING OF SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL
Monday, September 14, 2026
QUESTION NO. 3
QUESTION: Councillor W. Carey
To ask the Chief Executive whether any policy exists that permits, restricts or prohibits the display of artwork by local artists in community centres, park cafés and other council-operated premises.
REPLY:
Generally, the exhibition of artworks will be subject to the approval of community centre management and the boards of the centre, by the licenced operators of the park cafés, and by library management in the case of libraries. Decisions on exhibitions may be assessed against objectives such as accessibility, community benefit, inclusivity, and alignment with the role of the premises.
Although there is not a specific stand alone 'art exhibition policy' in Council operated premises, exhibitions might be restricted where the work:
- Creates health and safety concerns
- Is discriminatory, abusive, defamatory, or unlawful.
- Risks damage to property or disruption to services.
- Conflicts with the library's obligation to provide an inclusive public space for all users.
- Fails to comply with the conditions governing use of rooms and event spaces.
There are conditions governing the use of rooms and event spaces in SDCC Libraries, where exhibitions are treated as a use of library space. It gives library management discretion over what activities, displays, or events are permitted and may include rules relating to public safety, insurance, suitability, compliance with law, and the library's right to refuse or remove material.
If an exhibition could create disruption, offend users, or conflict with expected standards of behaviour in a public facility, the Code of Conduct may be cited as a basis for restricting or removing display.
Broader Council policies concerning equality, discrimination, public safety, child safeguarding, reputation, and compliance with law may also influence what artwork can be displayed. The Council maintains a wider suite of corporate policies that apply across its services.