Dublin ice rink opens in the premises formerly known as the Leinster Cinema in Dolphin's Barn.
Dublin has an ice rink for the first time in more than 15 years. The new rink is opened by Dublin Lord Mayor, Alderman Fergus O'Brien. He takes to the ice with the expert assistance of professional ice skaters Linda Davis, who partnered Olympic champion John Curry, and Debi Mason.
The Dublin Ice Rink is the brainchild of barrister and businessman Desmond McEvaddy.
He visited rinks all over Europe to study the feasibility of the project.
The £4000,000 venture sees the former Leinster Cinema in Dolphin's Barn converted into an ice rink. A troupe of championship skaters from Britain will be giving exhibitions throughout the opening week. Instructors will also be available at skate sessions. The rink accommodates up to 700 people and will be open seven days a week.
For those who'd rather watch, the cinema's balcony has been converted into a snack bar and spectator's area.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 24 October 1980. The reporter is Kieron Wood.
