NATIONAL CONCERT HALL ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016 NATIONAL CONCERT HALL ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
INFORMATION 1.
BOARD REPORT 2-3.
RESPONSIBILITIES STATEMENT 4.
STATEMENT OF INTERNAL FINANCIAL CONTROL 5-8.
CHAIRPERSON’S FOREWORD 9-10.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S FOREWORD 11-13.
AUDITORS’ REPORT 15-16.
STATEMENT OF INCOME AND EXPENDITURE 17.
STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME 18.
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION 19.
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS 20.
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 22-35. NATIONAL CONCERT HALL ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
INFORMATION
BOARD: Maura McGrath (Chairperson) James Cavanagh Rebecca Gageby Gerard Gillen Eleanor McEvoy Máire O’Connor Michael O’Donovan John Reynolds Don Thornhill
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER: Simon Taylor SECRETARY: John Nolan HEAD OFFICE: Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin 2
BANKERS: Bank of Ireland, 39, St. Stephen’s Green East, Dublin 2.
SOLICITORS: Philip Lee Solicitors, 7/8, Wilton Terrace Dublin 2.
NCH BOARD
Rebecca Gageby, Gerard Gillen, Don Thornhill, Máire O’Connor, Michael O’Donovan, Maura McGrath, John Reynolds, Eleanor McEvoy and James Cavanagh.
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BOARD REPORT
The Board has pleasure in submitting its Report together with the financial statements for the period from 1 February 2016 (date of establishment) to 31 December 2016.
On 1 February 2016, An Ceoláras Náisiúnta the National Concert Hall was established as a Statutory Body under the National Cultural Institutions (National Concert Hall) Act 2015 (‘Act’). The establishment day order (SI 29 of 2016) published in Iris Oifigiúil on 26 January 2016 enabled this. Section 26(5) of the Act deems the first ‘financial year’ of operations to be “the period commencing on establishment day and ending on 31 December of that year to be a financial year”. The first ‘financial year’ of operations is therefore an eleven month period, 1 February – 31 December 2016.
PRINCIPAL FUNCTIONS AND OPERATING REVIEW
The principal functions of the organisation under the National Cultural Institutions (National Concert Hall) Act 2015 are:- (a) to provide and operate, having regard to international standards and good practice, the national venue for the performance, appreciation and enjoyment of musical, creative, artistic and cultural activities including the promotion of concerts and recitals of artistic, educational and cultural value, (b) in the public interest, to promote and support the performance, knowledge, appreciation, creation and enjoyment of music as an integral part of Irish life, (c) to entertain, educate and engage the public through musical experiences, and (d) to encourage and promote inclusivity, participation, creativity, experimentation and involvement in music through engagement with diverse individuals and communities as performers, participants, composers or audience members.
The operating review is outlined in the Chairperson’s Foreword.
RESULTS FOR THE 11 MONTH PERIOD
The accounts for the period from 1 February 2016 (date of establishment) to 31 December 2016 are set out on pages 17 to 35. The results for this period on ordinary activities and after transfer to capital redevelopment reserve show a deficit of €132,166.
PRINCIPAL RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES
The principal risk and uncertainty affecting the organisation for the year ahead is the potential reduction in funding from government grants received and the effects this may have on the ongoing operations of the organisation. The organisation also faces risks and uncertainties which would include but are not limited to international and local economic conditions, their effect on customer spending in the area of the organisation’s principal activity and their effect on discretionary consumer spending in general. The Board manage these risks by endeavouring to ensure that the organisation has adequate current financial support and by actively seeking to further increase turnover.
RESERVES
The accumulated surplus on Income and Expenditure Account amounted to €1,438,064 at 31 December 2016. In addition other reserves at 31 December 2016 amount to €315,609.
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ACCOUNTING RECORDS
The measures taken by the Board to ensure compliance regarding proper accounting records are the implementation of necessary policies and procedures for recording transactions, the employment of competent accounting personnel with appropriate expertise and the provision of adequate resources to the financial function. The accounting records of the organisation are maintained at the National Concert Hall, Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin 2.
TRANSFER OF ENGAGEMENT
On 1 February 2016 the National Concert Hall was established as a statutory body under the National Cultural Institutions (National Concert Hall) Act 2015. On this date An Ceoláras Náisiúnta The National Concert Hall Company ceased to exist and a statutory body An Ceoláras Náisiúnta the National Concert Hall (“NCH”) was established. All assets and liabilities of the company were transferred to the statutory body.
COMPARATIVE FIGURES
No comparative figures are available to include in the body of this report as the 11 month period 1 February – 31 December 2016 forms the first financial period for the NCH as a statutory body.
Signed on behalf of the board
Maura McGrath Máire O’Connor
25 May 2017 25 May 2017
ROYAL CONCERTGEBOUW ORCHESTRA WITH DANIELE GATTI, CONDUCTOR
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RESPONSIBILITIES STATEMENT
The chief executive officer (“CEO”), under the direction of the Board, is responsible for preparing the financial statements in accordance with applicable Irish law, regulations and accounting standards.
The Act requires the CEO, under direction of the Board to prepare financial statements for each financial year. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the National Cultural Institutions (National Concert Hall) Act 2015 and FRS 102 “The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in Ireland and the UK” issued by the Financial Reporting Council, and promulgated by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Ireland. The Board must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities and financial position of the organisation as at the financial year end date and of the surplus or deficit of the organisation for the financial year and otherwise comply with the National Cultural Institutions (National Concert Hall) Act 2015.
In preparing these financial statements, the Board are required to:
select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently; make judgments and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent; state whether the financial statements have been prepared in accordance with applicable accounting standards, identify those standards, and note the effect and the reasons for any material departure from those standards; and prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the organisation will continue in business.
The CEO, under the direction of the Board, shall cause to be kept on a continuous basis proper books of account of all the income and expenditure of the organisation, and of the sources of such income and the subject matter of such expenditure, and of the property, assets and liabilities of the organisation, and the chief executive officer shall cause to be kept such other accounts as the Minister or the Board with the consent of the Minister may direct from time to time to be kept in such form as the Minister or the Board may direct.
The Board is also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the organisation and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
The operating review is outlined in the Chairperson’s Foreword.
Signed on behalf of the board
Maura McGrath Máire O’Connor
Signed by the chief executive officer
Simon Taylor
25 May 2017
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STATEMENT OF INTERNAL FINANCIAL CONTROL
OVERVIEW OF AN CEOLÁRAS NÁISIÚNTA THE NATIONAL CONCERT HALL (NCH)
An Ceoláras Náisiúnta The National Concert Hall was originally established as a company limited by guarantee under the aegis of the Department of an Taoiseach and presented its first concert on 9th September 1981. The overseeing government department changed in the intervening years since 1981 to that of Arts, culminating with the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs.
On 1 February 2016 An Ceoláras Náisiúnta the National Concert Hall was established as a Statutory Body. The legislation - National Cultural Institutions (National Concert Hall) Act 2015 - underpinned the unique and vital place that the NCH has in the national cultural landscape and secures the future of the body by enshrining it by way of specific legislation, setting out an inspiring and ambitious remit for the future, in accordance with the Board’s vision: to be seen worldwide as one of the great venues for music whilst playing a pivotal role in the musical and cultural life of Irish people.
The principal functions of An Ceoláras Náisiúnta the National Concert Hall are set out in the 2015 Act as follows:- (a) to provide and operate, having regard to international standards and good practice, the national venue for the performance, appreciation and enjoyment of musical, creative, artistic and cultural activities including the promotion of concerts and recitals of artistic, educational and cultural value, (b) in the public interest, to promote and support the performance, knowledge, appreciation, creation and enjoyment of music as an integral part of Irish life, (c) to entertain, educate and engage the public through musical experiences, and (d) to encourage and promote inclusivity, participation, creativity, experimentation and involvement in music through engagement with diverse individuals and communities as performers, participants, composers or audience members.
BOARD OF THE NATIONAL CONCERT HALL
The term of the last Board of Directors of the NCH as a limited company ceased on 31 January 2016 in line with the company’s dissolution and the establishment of a statutory body. The members of the new Board of the NCH were appointed on 24 June 2016. As a consequence of the State’s process of appointment no Board existed during the intervening period.
The current Board convened without delay and undertook a process of induction for its members.
The Board adopted a formal schedule of matters reserved for its decision in 2016. Five formal meetings of the new Board took place in 2016 since its appointment on 24 June 2016.
BOARD COMMITTEES
Three committees of the Board have been established namely:- Audit and Risk Committee (“ARC”); Strategic HR, Organisational Development, Performance and Capability Committee; and the Development of NCH Site & Capital Planning Committee. Each of these committees has its own specific Terms of Reference.
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The ARC is comprised of members who possess the requisite skill sets and knowledge to support the Board in its responsibilities for issues of risk, control and governance. In 2016 its members included Máire O’Connor (chairperson), Michael O’Donovan, Don Thornhill and Des Quigley (external member).
The Audit and Risk Committee formed on 7 September 2016 under terms of reference in line with the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies 2016, has held four meetings since its appointment.
The Board’s approach to risk allocates responsibility for risk management and establishes a framework within which risks are identified and evaluated so that an appropriate response can be determined and affected. The risk management process is designed for the effective assessment and identification of any issues which could prevent the NCH from achieving its objectives, and by ensuring that procedures are in place to minimise, or manage, those risks. It therefore involves a planned and systematic approach to the identification, assessment and mitigation of the risks that could hinder the achievement of the NCH’s strategic objectives.
STRATEGY AND VISION
The strategic direction of the NCH is set out in its strategy document ‘Strategy 2015-2020’.
INTERNAL AUDIT
The internal audit function is outsourced to a professional firm which was appointed by means of a public tender. The internal auditors were appointed on 1st December 2014.
The internal auditors completed five separate audits and provided reports on each during 2016.
FINANCIAL SYSTEMS & MANAGEMENT TOOLS
The internal auditors reported in 2016 that in relation to their ‘High Level Review of the System of Internal Financial Control’ the main findings were that the NCH has developed good financial controls and procedures and that these are generally operating effectively.
The management accounts, including budgets and forecasts for the organisation are considered at each meeting of the Board of Directors and form a standard agenda item.
BUDGETS AND BUDGETARY CONTROL
The Board approves the forthcoming year’s budget annually in advance.
Management Accounts and Forecasts are prepared on a monthly basis.
The NCH adopts a relatively sophisticated approach to budgetary control. Individual budgets are monitored using variance analysis as a control technique. Variance analysis is a key element of performance management and a tool of budgetary control through the quantitative investigation of variances between the budgeted amounts provided versus the actual values incurred/generated. This management control technique attempts to identify and explain the reasons for differences between a budgeted amount and an actual amount reported. Such analysis is carried out for both costs and revenues.
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SECURITY AND MAINTENANCE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY (“ICT”) SYSTEMS
The NCH’s ICT policy, systems, operations, maintenance processes and usage are aligned so that:
ICT services’ provisions are in line with the NCH’s business requirements based on existing Government standards and best practices. NCH institutional information resources and services are highly secure using appropriate controls. Both employees of the NCH, and the public use ICT facilities and services in an appropriate and responsible manner. Annual maintenance includes appropriate testing to ensure that risks are identified and, where necessary, appropriate action taken to mitigate these risks.
Applications Maintenance and Support
The NCH manages its ICT infrastructure by ensuring that its operations are optimized for delivery of a high level service quality which supports business-relevant operations based on ICT planning and management best practices.
The administration and maintenance of applications is an on-going process and planned to last throughout the life cycle of ICT applications.
BOARD STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITY FOR INTERNAL FINANCIAL CONTROL
The Board of Directors acknowledges its responsibility for ensuring that an effective system of internal financial control is maintained and operated in the NCH and for putting in place processes and procedures for the purpose of ensuring that the system is effective.
The system can provide only reasonable and not absolute assurance that assets are safeguarded, transactions authorised and properly recorded, and that material errors or irregularities are either prevented or would be detected in a timely period.
KEY CONTROL PROCEDURES
The NCH has taken steps to ensure an appropriate control environment is in place by:
Clearly defining management responsibilities. Developing procedures and regulations which are reviewed regularly and are documented, implemented and up to date. Establishing formal procedures through various committee functions to monitor the activities and safeguard the assets of the organisation (ARC; Strategic HR, Organisational Development, Performance and Capability Committee and Development of NCH Site & Capital Planning Committee). Adopting clear terms of reference for Board Committees. Developing a strong culture of accountability across all levels of the organisation. Ensuring agreements are in place with regard to entities that provide critical services to the NCH.
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The NCH has also developed processes to identify and evaluate business risks. This is achieved in a number of ways including: Adoption of an Enterprise Risk Framework. Identifying key risks, risk owners and the controls and timelines to mitigate these risks. Developing annual and longer term targets and reporting on results achieved. A comprehensive budgeting system with an annual budget which is reviewed and approved by the Board. Regular reviews by the Board of periodic and annual financial reports on financial performance against forecasts. Setting targets to measure financial and other performances. Clearly defined capital investment control guidelines.
The NCH acknowledges its compliance obligations with all relevant legislation/regulations including those relating to procurement.
An Internal Audit Plan is approved by the ARC annually. The plan takes account of areas of potential risk identified in a risk assessment exercise carried out with management at the start of the current planning cycle. Reports are provided to the ARC on assignments carried out. These reports highlight deficiencies or weaknesses, if any, in the system of internal control and the recommended corrective measures to be taken where necessary. The Audit and Risk Committee receives regular reports on the status of issues raised.
The Board of Directors’ monitoring and review of the effectiveness of the system of internal control are informed by the work of the management, who have responsibility for the development and maintenance of the internal control framework, the ARC, Internal Auditors and comments made by External Auditors in their management letters.
The review of internal auditing and internal controls is carried out by the ARC. As such the ARC reviewed all internal audit reports provided in 2016 and conducted as part of the internal audit plan, including internal financial controls at their scheduled meetings during the year. A review of the systems of internal financial control was carried out by the internal auditors in December 2016. The ARC reported to the Board on internal audit reviews conducted during the year and also reported to the Board on the effectiveness of internal financial control for the period ended 31 December 2016 on 30 March 2017.
Signed on behalf of the board
Maura McGrath Máire O’Connor Chairperson of the Board Chairperson of the ARC
25 May 2017
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CHAIRPERSON’S FOREWORD
I was honoured to be appointed by Minister Heather Humphreys TD as Chairperson of the new Board of the National Concert Hall (‘NCH’) following its establishment as a Statutory Body in February 2016. This legislation, the National Cultural Institutions (National Concert Hall) Act 2015, underpinned and reaffirms the unique and vital place the NCH has in our national cultural landscape and secures its future by setting out an inspiring and ambitious remit ahead. This is in accordance with our own vision: to be seen worldwide as one of the great venues for music whilst playing a pivotal role in the musical and cultural life of Irish people. As custodians of our national musical heritage, embracing traditional music as well as classical composers, popular songwriters as well as contemporary artists, we celebrate and support music and musicians of all genres, offering enriching and creative experiences to our audiences and championing life-long musical engagement.
In its role as a national cultural institution the NCH strives to bring music in all its many and varied forms into the lives of the public it exists to serve. I hold a deeply held belief in the importance of music to all our lives and throughout all our life stages.
The Hall’s output ranges across all musical genres and includes an extensive education and outreach programme. During 2016 the NCH also made a major contribution to the 1916 centenary programme through a series of landmark cultural projects. A programme of redevelopment commenced in 2016 with the restoration of the historic Kevin Barry Rooms opened by the Taoiseach Enda Kenny TD and Minister Heather Humphreys TD, on 11th April 2016. These rooms were the setting for the meeting of the second Dáil Éireann and the Treaty debates of 1921/22.
The Board is currently working with the Office of Public Works (‘OPW’) to develop a master-plan for the site in line with NCH Strategy 2015-2020. This will be an exciting, ambitious and challenging transformation at the NCH. It will include significant refurbishment and upgrading of the main auditorium; a second 500 seat recital space, a dedicated education centre and a rehearsal space for the RTÉ NSO. The works will incorporate the essential improvement of public and back-stage facilities; the necessary infrastructure for digital distribution of concert and education works to a wider public, inclusive of all musical tastes and across all ages. The ambition of the Board and myself as Chairperson is to see the full potential of the National Concert Hall brought to fruition. Over the next five years we will work closely with the Chief Executive and his management team to deliver a National Concert Hall of which we can all be proud.
In 2016, I am happy to report that the NCH hosted over 1,000 events; numbers in attendance were significant, welcoming over 312,000 patrons to the NCH. Ticket sales generated direct income for own promoted concerts of €1¾m and a further €5¼m for third parties for the full year. Advance ticket sales for future concerts bookings increased by €½m over the full year. These ticket sales are vital to the ongoing business of the NCH. For the first ‘financial year’ as a statutory body (Feb/Dec 2016) total income was in excess of €7m (trading income €4.7m, grant €2.4m) but, despite this, the NCH reported a net deficit with challenges continuing in generating sufficient support from private, corporate and philanthropic funding to meet the needs of the NCH. However, I wish to recognise the great contribution made by our sponsors and donors who unfailingly continue to support the NCH and
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without whom many programmes would not be possible or sustainable. The subvention from the State forms approximately one third of the NCH’s income and the balance is derived from trading activities.
The high quality and number of concerts and events held at the NCH in 2016, and particularly in this special centenary celebration year are testament to our dedicated staff at all levels who commit their time, boundless energies and talents to making the NCH what it is – an iconic venue loved by all. I wish to acknowledge the dedication of the staff, management and CEO in their continuous efforts and contribution to the NCH.
I wish to conclude by thanking my fellow Board members for their dedication, contribution and support. I also wish to acknowledge the support the NCH receives from the Office of Public Works, the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs and from our Minister, Heather Humphreys TD.
Maura McGrath Chairperson
25 May 2017
RTÉ NSO
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CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S FOREWORD
I am pleased to report on a busy and in many ways exceptional year at the National Concert Hall. In addition to the change in our legal status and the opening of the refurbished Kevin Barry Rooms by an Taoiseach Enda Kenny TD (already referred to by the Chairperson), the Ireland 1916/2016 Centenary Programme gave the National Concert Hall the opportunity and additional financial resources to undertake a number of landmark projects. These served to further underline the importance of the National Concert Hall in the musical and cultural life of Ireland and its statutory role as the national venue for the performance, appreciation and enjoyment of music.
The first of our Ireland 2016 projects,Imagining Home was a series of seven consecutive nights at Easter. These took audiences on a fascinating, multi-layered journey through Irish music, literature and culture and brought together many of Ireland’s leading musicians, writers, poets, actors, thinkers and acclaimed international artists to reflect on our recent history, our place in the world and our relationship to it over the last 100 years. The generous and collaborative participation of all the extraordinary talents involved, made this one of the cultural highlights of the 2016 programme nationally. In addition, in association with Culture Ireland and the Department of Foreign Affairs, the National Concert Hall curated a special event at London’s Royal Festival Hall ‘Imagining Ireland’.
Starboard Home, presented in association with Dublin Port and curated with one of the National Concert Hall’s resident songwriters Paul Noonan was a contemporary song-cycle inspired by the River Liffey and its port and featured artists such as Lisa O’Neill, Cathy Davey, Gemma Hayes, John Sheahan, Declan O’Rourke and James Vincent McMorrow. Accompanying this significant concert was the release of the album ‘Starboard Home’.
‘Song for ‘16’ was a schools competition as part of Ireland 2016 which invited young songwriters to write and perform a song celebrating modern, multi-cultural Ireland. The winning song, Ireland is Our Home by David Adderly (11) was released by Disney Music Group during the year.
In September Composing the Island was an epic 28 concert, three week journey through Irish art music over the last century, presented in association with RTÉ and generously sponsored by Bord na Móna. The series involved both RTÉ orchestras and its other music groups, as well as many of Ireland’s finest classical musicians and ensembles in a once-in-a century celebration of Irish composers.
The Hall’s annual flagshipInternational Concert Series brought together two of our resident ensembles Chamber Choir Ireland and the Irish Baroque Orchestra for Handel’s oratorio Samson in January and the incomparable Choir of King’s College Cambridge rounded off the year in December. In between the Bach Collegium of Japan which made its Irish debut, we had great pianism from Jeremy Denk in Bach and Yundi in Chopin, baritone Christian Gerhaher delighted in Mozart with the Freiburg Baroque Orchestra, star soprano Angela Gheorghiu shone in Puccini with the RTÉNSO and virtuoso violinist Maxim Vengerov dazzled in recital. Visiting orchestras included Amsterdam’s Concertgebouw to open the 2016/17 season, the Prague Chamber Orchestra and the Brussels Philharmonic.
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Perspectives, our international contemporary artist series, brought fascinating concerts by Max Richter, Stars of the Lid and the legendary Wayne Shorter Quartet. We presented the world premiere live score version of Terrence Malick’s acclaimed film The Tree of Life and our summer season featured sell-out concerts by Melody Gardot, Rufus Wainright and guitar virtuoso Tommy Emmanuel.
The Hall also expanded its programming for children and families, with live orchestra performances of The Gruffalo, Stick Man, Room on the Broom, as well as the ever-popular The Snowman at Christmas.
The Lifetime Achievement Award for 2016 was presented to the Vanbrugh Quartet, who also played a big part in the inaugural season for the Kevin Barry Recital Room performing the complete Beethoven string quartets. A residency with fiddler Caoimhín Ó Raghallaigh, as well as jazz from the great Gary Peacock Trio and special live broadcast of Newstalk’s ‘Talking History’ ensured a vibrant opening Season. The recital room has already found a strong following, with a full season of performances programmed for 2016/17 ranging from the RTÉ Con Tempo Quartet to a guitar series curated by Redmond O’Toole to jazz pianists Jason Moran and Justin Kauflin.
Our resident RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra season highlights included a Stravinsky weekend, a memorable Irish debut by French conductor Nathalie Stutzmann; Patricia Bardon singing Mahler; Stephen Hough in Rachmaninov and very successful concert celebrating the music of Arvo Pärt. Liam O’Flynn joined the orchestra for a St. Patrick’s Day special and other notable successes were Bach’s St. John Passion on Good Friday, a concert with the unique Camille O’Sullivan in July and opera galas with Irish sopranos Celine Byrne and Ailish Tynan.
The RTÉ Concert Orchestra achieved particular acclaim with John Wilson in his final season as Principal Conductor and with its several screenings of Mise Éire, with Sean Ó Riada’s seminal score played live. The orchestra’s Signature Series included Hayley Westenra and Curtis Stigers and both RTÉ orchestras delighted packed houses in their ever-popular summer lunchtime concerts.
The National Concert Hall enjoys close relationships with many external promoters, who brought us an array of great events and artists during the year across all musical genres, including five sell- out concerts by The Gloaming; West End musical star Rebecca Storm; singer Rita Coolidge; singer songwriters Eric Bogle and Albert Hammond; Indian musician Anoushka Shankar and English folk singer Kate Rusby. We also hosted Patrick Cassidy’s The Children of Lir and the Veronica Dunne Singing Competition (won by Egyptian soprano Fatma Said) and full opera performances came from Lyric Opera (Carmen) and Opera and Ballet International (Carmen and Tosca). The many amateur choral societies that perform at the Hall are an important part of our programme too, as are the regular Friday evening organ recitals presented in association with Pipeworks.
We are always particularly pleased to work with the next generation of Irish musicians and educational institutions such as the Royal Irish Academy of Music; DIT Conservatory of Music; the National Youth Orchestra; Dublin Youth Orchestras and the Feis Ceoil.
2016 was another busy year for the Education, Community and Outreach programme. The programme expanded over each of our five key work areas (Children and Families; Musicians and Music Students; Schools and Teachers; Community and Healthcare) providing more opportunities for people to engage with music than ever before.
Our development orchestra, SinfoNua, returned for a celebration of American music with acclaimed pianist Michael McHale, later performing with Camerata Ireland for a live screening of the ground- breaking film The Battle of the Somme. In an innovative project funded by Science Foundation Ireland and Dublin Port Company, and collaborating with Trinity College Dublin, Music and Science: Quavers to Quadratics offered over 700 primary school students a new and exciting way to look at physics through the medium of music and sound. Musical World offered our young students a journey through the different music of the globe through interactive performances, and our series of talks Mighty Bach,
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delivered by the inimitable Tim Thurston, gave a fascinating and unique insight into one of the world’s greatest composers.
These, with many other events in the Education, Community and Outreach programme, accounted for over 23,000 visits in 2016. People from the age of 3 months to 91 years participated across a wide range of performances, workshops, masterclasses and talks, reflecting our ongoing commitment to life-long learning and engagement.
In addition, our outreach work across Ireland reached over 4,000 individuals in 2016. Music in Children’s Hospitals: Kids’ Classics now operates in eight centres nationally; Music in Mind offers music participation opportunities for people living in the community with mental health difficulties;Health and Harmony brings music performance into dementia day care and respite centres, and our music programme in the National Rehabilitation Hospital continues to assist with the rehabilitation of people with Acquired Brain Injury.
Bass-baritone Padraic Rowan was announced as the winner of the Bernadette Greevy Bursary Award 2016 which is generously supported by the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, while David Coonan won the Jerome Hynes composition competition.
During 2016, the National Concert Hall undertook an extensive brand review as a key part of the implementation of its Strategy 2015-2020. The process involved extensive audience research, stakeholder consultation and national and international benchmarking, the findings from which will inform future developments and initiatives, including the roll-out of a new visual identity in Spring 2017.
Simultaneously we have been working closely with the OPW in formulating a comprehensive site masterplan for the redevelopment of the National Concert Hall, another core element of the strategy. This will see the continuation of a phased approach to both the refurbishment and upgrading of existing facilities but also a comprehensive longer-term plan for the entirety of the Earlsfort Terrace site, including the development of the national children’s science museum on part of the site, for which planning permission was granted in September.
Another important development was the designation by Dublin City Council of the environs of the NCH as the National Concert Hall Quarter, which places the Hall and Iveagh Gardens at the centre of development plans for the area as a distinctive cultural quarter.
As already reported by the Chairperson, our patron numbers and sales remained buoyant in 2016, with average capacities for concerts in the main auditorium up 2% on the previous year. In all, we presented over 1,000 events in 2016 to over 312,000 people.
This requires a huge effort on behalf of all our staff across all departments and I would like to take this opportunity to thank all my colleagues in programming, education, operations, sales and marketing, development and finance for their exceptional dedication and hard work during the year. I would also like to gratefully acknowledge the commitment and work of the Board of directors and Chairperson Maura McGrath since their appointment in June and Minister Heather Humphreys TD and the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs for their continued support.
Simon Taylor Chief Executive
25 May 2017
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WAYNE SHORTER QUARTET IMAGINING HOME: ENGLAND - CAMILLE O’SULLIVAN
GLEN HANSARD
MAXIM VENGEROV © B EALOVEGA
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AUDITOR’S REPORT COMPTROLLER AND AUDITOR GENERAL REPORT FOR PRESENTATION TO THE HOUSES OF THE OIREACHTAS
NATIONAL CONCERT HALL I have audited the financial statements of the National Concert Hall for the period ended 31 December 2016 under the National Cultural Institutions (National Concert Hall) Act 2015. The financial statements comprise the statement of income and expenditure, the statement of comprehensive income, the statement of financial position, the statement of cash flows and the related notes. The financial statements have been prepared under Section 26 of the Act, and in accordance with generally accepted accounting practice.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE MEMBERS OF THE BOARD
The Board is responsible for the preparation of the financial statements, for ensuring that they give a true and fair view and for ensuring the regularity of transactions.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COMPTROLLER AND AUDITOR GENERAL
My responsibility is to audit the financial statements and to report on them in accordance with applicable law. My audit is conducted by reference to the special considerations which attach to State bodies in relation to their management and operation. My audit is carried out in accordance with the International Standards on Auditing (UK and Ireland) and in compliance with the Auditing Practices Board’s Ethical Standards for Auditors.
SCOPE OF AUDIT OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
An audit involves obtaining evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, sufficient to give reasonable assurance that the financial statements are free from material misstatement, whether caused by fraud or error. This includes an assessment of
whether the accounting policies are appropriate to the National Concert Hall’s circumstances, and have been consistently applied and adequately disclosed the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made in the preparation of the financial statements, and the overall presentation of the financial statements.
I also seek to obtain evidence about the regularity of financial transactions in the course of audit.
In addition, I read the National Concert Hall’s annual report to identify material inconsistencies with the audited financial statements and to identify any information that is apparently materially incorrect based on, or materially inconsistent with, the knowledge acquired by me in the course of performing the audit. If I become aware of any apparent material misstatements or inconsistencies, I consider the implications for my report.
15 NATIONAL CONCERT HALL ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
OPINION ON THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
In my opinion, the financial statements: give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities and financial position of the National Concert Hall as at 31 December 2016 and of its income and expenditure for the period ending on 31 December 2016; and have been properly prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting practice.
In my opinion, the accounting records of the National Concert Hall were sufficient to permit the financial statements to be readily and properly audited. The financial statements are in agreement with the accounting records.
DEFERRED RETIREMENT BENEFIT FUNDING
Without qualifying my opinion, I draw attention to note 25(b) to the financial statements. The National Concert Hall recognises an asset in respect of deferred retirement benefit funding – the current value of the funding it anticipates the State will provide in the future to meet retirement benefit liabilities as they fall due. Inherent in this accounting treatment is an assumption that any income generated by the National Concert Hall will in the first instance be applied towards current expenses and that State funding will meet any current or future shortfall in resources, including future retirement benefit liabilities.
MATTERS ON WHICH I REPORT BY EXCEPTION
I report by exception if I have not received all the information and explanations I required for my audit, or if I find any material instance where money has not been applied for the purposes intended or where the transactions did not conform to the authorities governing them, or the information given in the National Concert Hall’s annual report is not consistent with the related financial statements or with the knowledge acquired by me in the course of performing the audit, or the statement on internal financial control does not reflect the Board’s compliance with the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies, or there are other material matters relating to the manner in which public business has been conducted.
I have nothing to report in regard to those matters upon which reporting is by exception.
Seamus McCarthy Comptroller and Auditor General
30 June 2017
16 NATIONAL CONCERT HALL ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
STATEMENT OF INCOME & EXPENDITURE FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
2016 NOTE €
Income Exchequer grant 5 2,426,250 Income from Own Promotions 2,063,370 Amortisation of Capital Grant 16 223,915 Net Deferred Funding for Pensions 25a 399,011 Other Income 6 2,647,763 Total Income 7,760,309
Expenditure Staff Costs 7 (2,630,673) Pension Costs 25a (399,011) Promotion Expenses 8 (3,514,741) Establishment Expenses 9 (739,554) Administration Expenses 10 (389,862) Depreciation 12 (232,620) Total Expenditure (7,906,461)
Deficit Before Appropriations (146,152)
Transfer from Organ Reserve 5,086 Profit on disposal of fixed assets 8,900 DEFICIT FOR THE PERIOD AFTER APPROPRIATIONS 11 (132,166)
The accompanying notes and statements of cash flows are an integral part of the financial statements
The financial statements were approved by the board on 25 May 2017 and signed on its behalf by:-
Maura McGrath Máire O’Connor Chairperson Board Member
25 May 2017
17 NATIONAL CONCERT HALL ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
2016 NOTE €
Deficit for the period after appropriations (132,166)
Actuarial loss on pension liabilities 25c (1,960,000)
Adjustment to deferred pension funding asset 25b 1,960,000
Total comprehensive deficit for the period (132,166)
The accompanying notes and statements of cash flows are an integral part of the financial statements
The financial statements were approved by the board on 25 May 2017 and signed on its behalf by:-
Maura McGrath Máire O’Connor Chairperson Board Member
25 May 2017
18 NATIONAL CONCERT HALL ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2016
2016 NOTE €
Fixed Assets Property, Plant and Equipment 12 679,846
Current Assets Receivables and Prepayments 13 283,967 Cash at bank and in hand 4,999,913 5,283,880
Payables: amounts falling due within one year 14 (4,210,053)
Net Current Assets 1,073,827
Total Assets less current liabilities 1,753,673
Retirement Benefits Retirement benefit obligations 25c (10,076,011) Deferred retirement benefit funding asset 25b 10,076,011 Total Net Assets 1,753,673
Reserves Transfer of Engagement 3 1,570,230 Deficit for the Period (132,166) 1,438,064 Other reserves 15 315,609 1,753,673
The accompanying notes and statements of cash flows are an integral part of the financial statements
The financial statements were approved by the board on 25 May 2017 and signed on its behalf by:-
Maura McGrath Máire O’Connor Chairperson Board Member
25 May 2017
19 NATIONAL CONCERT HALL ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
2016 NOTE €
CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES AND TRANSFERS ON ESTABLISHMENT
Operating Deficit (132,166) Interest Received (26,151) (Profit) on disposal of tangible fixed assets (8,900) Depreciation 232,620 Amortisation of Capital Grants (223,915) Transfer from Organ Reserve (5,086) Decrease in Debtors 297,279 Increase in Creditors 695,891 Increase in other Reserves 32,969 Cash and cash equivalents transferred from 4,102,321 The National Concert Hall Company Limited Net cash inflow from operating activities 4,964,862
CASH FLOW FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Payments to acquire Tangible Fixed Assets 392,062 Capital Grants Received (392,062) Realised from the Sale of Tangible Assets 8,900 Interest Received 26,151 35,051
INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS IN THE PERIOD 4,999,913 CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AS AT 1 FEBRUARY 2016 0 CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF YEAR 4,999,913
20 NATIONAL CONCERT HALL ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
THE BATTLE OF THE SOMME SCREENING WITH CAMERATA IRELAND AND SINFONUA
JOHN CONCANNON (CREATIVE IRELAND), MAURA MCGRATH (CHAIRPERSON NCH), DEE FORBES (RTÉ), SABINA HIGGINS, PRESIDENT MICHAEL D. HIGGINS, JOHN HORGAN (BORD NA MÓNA), MOYA DOHERTY (RTÉ), SIMON TAYLOR (CEO NCH), AT THE LAUNCH OF COMPOSING THE ISLAND
ESB LIVE - PAUL BRADY COMPOSING THE ISLAND - VIOLINIST ELAINE CLARK WITH THE RTÉ NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA AND GAVIN MALONEY, CONDUCTOR
AN TAOISEACH ENDA KENNY TD WITH MINISTER FOR ARTS, HERITAGE, REGIONAL, RURAL AND GAELTACHT AFFAIRS HEATHER HUMPHREYS TD, NCH CEO SIMON TAYLOR & THE VANBRUGH QUARTET AT THE OPENING OF THE KEVIN BARRY ROOMS
21 NATIONAL CONCERT HALL ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The significant accounting policies adopted by the NCH which have been applied consistently throughout the period are as follows:-
1.1. Basis of preparation
The financial statements are prepared on the going concern basis under the historical cost convention and comply with the "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in Ireland and the UK" issued by the Financial Reporting Council including the adoption of FRS 102 and promulgated by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Ireland. The National Concert Hall is a public benefit entity. The National Concert Hall has charitable tax status.
1.2. Currency
i Functional and Presentation Currency Items included in the financial statements are measured using the currency of the primary economic environment in which the NCH operates ("the functional currency”). The financial statements are presented in Euro, which is the body's functional and presentation currency and is denoted by the symbol “€”.
ii Transactions and Balances Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currency using the exchange rates at the dates of the transactions. At each period end foreign currency monetary items are translated using the closing rate.
1.3. Revenue
Revenue is recognised to the extent that the NCH obtains the right to consideration in exchange for its performance and is exclusive of value added tax.
Revenue from the provision of services is recognised in the accounting period in which the services are rendered and the outcome of the contract can be estimated reliably.
1.4. Exchequer Grants
Exchequer grants are recognised in the Statement of Income & Expenditure where there is reasonable assurance that the grant will be received and the NCH has complied with all attached conditions.
The grant is comprised of both i) current and ii) capital, elements. The current grant is detailed in the Statement of Income & Expenditure and the capital grant is stated at note 16. Capital grants are applied for the acquisition of fixed assets. Capital grants are amortised to the Statement of Income & Expenditure over the same period in which the underlying assets are depreciated.
22 NATIONAL CONCERT HALL ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
1.5. Property, Plant and Equipment and Depreciation
Tangible assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation.
The depreciation charge is calculated to write off the book value of each Fixed Asset during its expected normal life on a straight line basis at the following rates :-
Alteration to Leasehold Premises - 10 to 50 years Pipe Organ - 25 Years Steinway Pianoforte - 5 Years Computer Data System - 5 Years Office, Catering & Other Equipment - 5 Years Amplifiers and Speaker System - 5 Years Telephone System - 5 Years Mixing Console - 5 Years
Impairment Assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the assets carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount.
The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less costs to sell and value in use. Value in use is defined as the present value of the future cash flows obtainable as a result of the assets continued use.
If the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated to be lower than the carrying amount, the carrying amount is reduced to its recoverable amount.
If an impairment loss subsequently reverses the carrying amount of the asset is increased to the revised estimate of its recoverable amount but only to the extent that the revised carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined (net of depreciation) had no impairment loss been recognised in prior periods. A reversal of an impairment loss is recognised in the income and expenditure account.
1.6. Receivables
Receivables consist of trade and other debtors. A provision for non-recovery of receivables is recognised when there is objective evidence that the NCH will not be able to collect all amounts due. The amount of the provision is the difference between the assets carrying amount and the estimated recoverable value.
1.7. Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, demand deposits and other short term highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities on the statement of financial position.
1.8. Payables
Payables comprise trade and other creditors and are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities.
23 NATIONAL CONCERT HALL ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
1.9. Provisions
Provisions are recognised when the NCH has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of past events: it is probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation; and the amount of the obligation can be estimated reliably.
Provisions are measured at the present value of the expenditure expected to be required to settle the obligation.
1.10. Contingencies
Contingent liabilities, arising as a result of past events, are recognised when a) it is probable that there will be an outflow of resources or that an amount could be reliably measured at the reporting date or b) when the existence will be confirmed by the occurrence or non-occurrence of uncertain future events not wholly within the organisation's control. Contingent liabilities are disclosed in the financial statements unless the probability of an outflow of resources is remote.
Contingent assets are only recognised in the financial statements when an inflow of economic benefits is probable.
1.11. Employee Benefits
The NCH provides a range of benefits to employees. Short term benefits, including holiday pay and other similar non-monetary benefits, are recognised as an expense in the period in which the service is received.
Expenditure on pensions and lump sums will fall to be met from the Concert Hall's resources as they become payable. This expenditure will be taken into account in calculating the annual Grant.
1.12 Capital Redevelopment Reserve
The National Concert Hall decided to set up a capital redevelopment reserve the purpose of which is to fund future redevelopment costs of the Hall. All decisions in the use of this reserve are subject to the approval of the Board.
2. CRITICAL ACCOUNTING JUDGEMENTS AND ESTIMATES
The preparation of these financial statements requires the directors to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of policies and reported amounts of assets and liabilities, income and expenses. Judgements and estimates are continually evaluated and are based on historical experiences and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.
The NCH makes estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The resulting accounting estimates may not equal the related actual result. The estimates and assumptions that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are discussed below.
(a) Establishing useful economic life for depreciation purposes of fixed assets Fixed assets comprise a material portion of total assets. The annual depreciation charge depends primarily on the estimated useful economic life of each type of asset and estimates of residual values. Changes in asset useful lives can have a significant impact on depreciation and amortisation charges for the period. Details of estimated useful economic lives is included in the accounting policies.
24 NATIONAL CONCERT HALL ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
3. TRANSFER OF ENGAGEMENT
On 1 February 2016 the National Concert Hall was established as a statutory body. On that date the activities of the predecessor body (An Ceoláras Náisiúnta, The National Concert Hall Company Limited) were transferred to An Ceoláras Náisiúnta the National Concert Hall. The financial balances transferred on that date were as follows:
€ €
Fixed Assets 6,744,918 Cost (6,224,514) 520,404 Less accumulated depreciation
Cash and cash equivalents 4,102,321
Debtors Debtors 83,749 Trade debtors 497,497 581,246
Creditors Trade creditors 296,735 PAYE/PRSI 59,927 VAT 13,428 Sundry creditors 639,683 Spouses & Childrens’ Superannuation Scheme 181,227 AVC Scheme 159,366 Deferred capital grants 422,851 Advance bookings and deposits 1,561,564 (3,334,781)
Reserves Organ reserve 5,086 Educational Outreach Reserve 48,514 Capital Redevelopment Reserve 245,360 (298,960) Total 1,570,230
25 NATIONAL CONCERT HALL ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
4. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS 2016 € Financial assets that are debt instruments measured at cost Trade debtors 121,222 Other debtors 162,745 Cash at bank and in hand 4,999,913
Financial liabilities measured at cost Trade creditors 431,525 Deferred capital grants 590,993 Advanced bookings and deposits 1,755,154
5. EXCHEQUER GRANTS
Exchequer grants received from subhead A5 of the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs for the accounting period ended 31 December 2016 amounted to €2,426,250. In addition the value of capital grants received from the Government for the 11 months ended 31 December 2016 was €410,807.
6. OTHER INCOME 2016 €
Hire of Hall Facilities 769,648 RTÉ Rental 513,669 Commissions 437,940 Education Programme Sponsorship and Related Receipts 330,902 Friends/Corporates/Philanthropic Donations 282,299 Catering Rental 164,698 Sundry Income 148,607 Total 2,647,763
7. EMPLOYEES
Number of employees The average monthly numbers of employees during the year were: 2016 Number
Concert Support 77 Administration 26 103 Employment costs 2016 €
Wages and salaries 2,298,195 PRSI(ER) 229,489 Pension payments 102,989 2,630,673
26 NATIONAL CONCERT HALL ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
2016 € 8. PROMOTION EXPENSES
Education Programme 203,293 Expenses from Learn and Explore 185,615 Advertising and Promotion 352,747 Cost of Own Promotions 2,725,721 Bank and Credit Card Charges 47,365 3,514,741
2016 € 9. ESTABLISHMENT EXPENSES
Cleaning and Hygiene 129,475 Light and Heat 171,986 Insurance 18,113 Rent and Rates 11,796 Security 39,321 Piano Tuning 28,216 Sundry Expenses 85,775 Repairs and Renewals 254,872 739,544
2016 € 10. ADMINISTRATION EXPENSES
Printing and Stationery 33,757 Professional Fees 81,366 Postage 60,519 Telephone 40,577 Chairmans/Directors Expenses 1,499 Board & Committees Operational Expenses 4,688 Staff recruitment and agency costs 167,456 389,862
2016 € 11. OPERATING DEFICIT
Operating deficit is stated after charging: Audit Fees 15,000 Depreciation of tangible assets - owned 232,620
and after crediting: Profit on disposal of tangible fixed assets 8,900 Exchequer grant 2,426,250
27 NATIONAL CONCERT HALL ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
12. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Opening Transfer Additions Disposals Closing Balance (Note 3) Balance € € € € € Cost Amplifiers and Speaker System 0 819,405 26,711 0 846,116 Alterations to Leasehold 0 368,129 0 0 368,129 Premises Pipe Organ 0 711,605 23,855 0 735,460 Computer Data System 0 1,614,912 98,161 0 1,713,073 Office Catering and Other 0 2,432,785 114,432 (27,670) 2,519,547 Equipment Steinway Pianoforte 0 468,084 109,768 0 577,852 Telephone System 0 144,233 10,768 0 155,001 Mixing Console 0 185,765 8,367 0 194,132 0 6,744,918 392,062 (27,670) 7,109,310
Opening Transfer Additions Disposals Closing Balance (Note 3) Balance € € € € € Depreciation Amplifiers and Speaker System 0 768,373 43,090 0 811,463 Alterations to Leasehold 0 276,010 3,616 0 279,626 Premises Pipe Organ 0 706,516 9,462 0 715,978 Computer Data System 0 1,549,230 41,343 0 1,590,573 Office Catering and Other 0 2,226,747 85,748 (27,670) 2,284,825 Equipment Steinway Pianoforte 0 395,505 36,901 0 432,406 Telephone System 0 143,949 2,240 0 146,189 Mixing Console 0 158,184 10,220 0 168,404 0 6,224,514 232,620 (27,670) 6,429,464
Net Book Value 679,846
Assets were transferred to the new body according to the values in the schedule above titled ‘Transfer’ as disclosed in note 3 above. No formalised lease yet exists for the buildings which the National Concert Hall occupies. The National Concert Hall has the use of the buildings from the Office of Public Works without charge.
28 NATIONAL CONCERT HALL ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
KING’S COLLEGE CHOIR, CAMBRIDGE ECO - MUSIC AND SCIENCE
MARTIN HAYES & DENNIS CAHILL
BACH COLLEGIUM JAPAN CONDUCTED BY MASAAKI SUZUKI, CONDUCTOR
29 NATIONAL CONCERT HALL ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
13. DEBTORS 2016 €
Trade debtors 121,222 Prepayments 162,745 283,967
14. PAYABLES: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR 2016 €
Trade creditors 431,525 PAYE/PRSI/USC 89,528 VAT 29,256 Spouses & Childrens’ Superannuation Scheme 192,461 AVC Scheme 159,366 Accruals and deferred income 961,770 Deferred Capital Grants (Note 16 details movements over the period) 590,993 Advanced Bookings and Deposits 1,755,154 4,210,053
15. OTHER RESERVES 2016 €
Education and Outreach Reserve 48,514 Capital Redevelopment Reserve (Note 17 details movements over the period) 267,095 315,609
On the 8 March 2007 Anne-Sophie Mutter performed a concert the proceeds of which were donated to the National Concert Hall to be used exclusively for its Education and Outreach Programme.
16. MOVEMENT ON DEFERRED CAPITAL GRANTS
2016 € Opening Balance - Transfer of Engagement from the NCH Co. Ltd. to the NCH as a Statutory Body (Note 3) 422,851 Deferred Capital Grants released to the Income and Expenditure Account (223,915) Other Movements (18,750) Capital Grants Received 410,807 Closing Balance as at 31 December 2016 590,993
30 NATIONAL CONCERT HALL ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
17. CAPITAL REDEVELOPMENT RESERVE 2016 € Opening Balance - Transfer of Engagement from the NCH Co. Ltd. to the NCH as a Statutory Body (Note 3) 245,360 Donations Received 21,735 Expenditure Incurred - 267,095
18. RECONCILIATION OF MOVEMENTS IN OTHER RESERVES Total Organ Education & Capital 2016 Outreach Redevelopment € € € € Opening Balance - - - - Transfer of Engagement 5,086 48,514 245,360 298,960 (Note 3) Release of Reserve (5,086) - - (5,086) Capital Donations - - 21,735 21,735 Received Closing Balance - 48,514 267,095 315,609
19. PENSIONS
The National Concert Hall's Staff Superannuation Scheme was implemented on 1st July 1987. Expenditure on pensions and lump sums will fall to be met from the Concert Hall's resources as they become payable. This expenditure will be taken into account in calculating the annual Grant. The Spouses and Children’s Scheme was implemented on 1 September 1987.
S.20 of the National Cultural Institutions (National Concert Hall) Act 2015 confers that any superannuation benefits awarded to or in respect of a person shall be subject to such terms and conditions as are not less favourable to him or her than the terms and conditions in relation to the grant of such benefits under the superannuation scheme or arrangement that immediately before the establishment day apply to, or in respect of, that person.
Further details on retirement benefit costs are provided in note 25.
31 NATIONAL CONCERT HALL ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
20. BOARD ATTENDANCE AT MEETINGS 2016 (BOARD APPOINTED 24 JUNE 2016)
M. McGrath J. Cavanagh R. Gageby G. Gillen E. McEvoy M. O’Connor M. O’Donovan J. Reynolds D. Thornhill
28 July 2016 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
7 September 2016 Yes No Yes Yes No Yes No Yes Yes 29 September 2016 Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes 24 November 2016 Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes No 8 December 2016 Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
21. BOARD ATTENDANCE AT MEETINGS 2016 (BOARD APPOINTED 24 JUNE 2016)
M. McGrath J. Cavanagh R. Gageby G. Gillen E. McEvoy M. O’Connor M. O’Donovan J. Reynolds D. Thornhill
Expenses Paid in €1,145.01 €354.42 Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil 2016 Mileage €826.98 €354.42
Catering €134.90
Telephone €122.33
Taxi €60.80
22. CHAIRPERSON’S EMOLUMENTS 2016 2016 € Chairperson’s Emolument Nil
23. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER'S SALARY
11 Months 2016 Chief Executive's Salary €95,160
The Chief Executive Officer’s (“CEO”) salary above includes a contribution of 11% of gross salary by the National Concert Hall to his private superannuation scheme. The CEO received no additional remuneration be they performance related payments, benefits or otherwise.
24. EMPLOYEE NUMBERS BY SALARY CATEGORY
11 Months Salary Category No. of Employees €60,000 to €69,999 6 €70,000 to €79,999 0 €80,000 to €89,999 0 €90,000 to €99,999 1 €100,000 to €109,999 0 Total 7
32 NATIONAL CONCERT HALL ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
ANGELA GHEORGHIU
STARBOARD HOME - CATHY DAVEY STARBOARD HOME - JOHN SHEAHAN
CARA O’SULLIVAN
33 NATIONAL CONCERT HALL ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
25. RETIREMENT BENEFIT COSTS a) The current service cost of retirement benefits for the period amount to €399,011. This is comprised of the net interest cost of €172,000 outlined in section (c) below together with the current service cost of €227,011. The current service cost is the full service cost of €330,000 outlined in part (c) below less benefits paid of €102,989 in the period. b) Deferred Retirement Benefit Funding Asset The National Concert Hall recognises these amounts as an asset corresponding to the unfunded deferred liability for retirement benefits on the basis of a number of events. These events include the statutory basis for the establishment of the National Concert Hall on 1 February 2016; the transferral of pensions’ liabilities from the former NCH Company to the NCH as a statutory body; correspondence from the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs that reasonable assurances are understood to exist from the State that it will fund the future costs of the NCH’s pensions’ liabilities and the policy and practices currently in place in the public service in relation to recording and funding the future pensions’ costs of public bodies. c) Movement in Defined Benefit Obligations 2016 €
Net Retirement Benefit Obligation – 1 February 2016 (7,717,000) Current Employee Service Cost (330,000) Net Interest on Net Defined Liability (172,000) Actuarial Loss during the period (1,960,000) Pensions Paid in the Year 102,989 Net Retirement Benefit Obligation as at 31 December 2016 (10,076,011) d) General Description of Schemes The National Concert Hall Staff Superannuation Scheme 1987 is a defined benefit final salary pension arrangement with benefits defined by reference to the National Concert Hall Staff Superannuation Scheme 1987 and to the current “model” public sector scheme regulations.
The scheme provides a pension (1/80 per year of service), a lump sum on retirement (3/80 per year of service) and spouses’ and childrens’ pensions.
Normal retirement age is a member’s 65th birthday, with an entitlement to retire without actuarial reduction from age 60.
Pensions increase, subject to Ministerial approval, in line with relevant pay increases applicable to serving staff. Such pension increases are effective from the same dates as pay increases.
Although the scheme continues to operate under the terms of the National Concert Hall Staff Superannuation Scheme 1987, its establishment has not yet been formalised under statute. The scheme is an unfunded defined benefit superannuation arrangement with benefits payable on a pay-as-you-go basis from the NCH’s core funding.
In accordance with Section 20 of the National Cultural Institutions (National Concert Hall) Act 2015 (‘Act’) pensions’ liabilities of the NCH Company became from establishment day on 1 February 2016, the liabilities of the NCH. This section also provides that superannuation benefits awarded to, or in respect of a transferred person, shall be subject to such terms and conditions as are not less favourable to him or her than the terms and conditions in relation to the grant of such benefits under the superannuation scheme or arrangement that immediately before the establishment day apply to, or in respect of, that person.
34 NATIONAL CONCERT HALL ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1 FEBRUARY 2016 (DATE OF ESTABLISHMENT) TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
Expenditure on pensions’ and lump sums fall to be met from the NCH’s resources as they become payable. This expenditure is taken into account when calculating the body’s grant.
The NCH also operates the Single Public Service Pension Scheme which applies to all staff who joined the public sector as new entrants on or after 1 January 2013. It is a defined benefit pension scheme which the NCH has accounted for in estimating its defined benefit retirement obligations in accordance with FRS 102. All employee retirement benefit contributions for this scheme are paid to a State retirement benefit account. The scheme operates on a pay-as-you-go basis payable from the NCH’s core funding.
The evaluation methodology used has been based on a full actuarial valuation made by a qualified independent actuary taking into account the requirements of Financial Reporting Standard 102 in order to assess the schemes’ liabilities as at 31 December 2016.
The principal actuarial assumptions were as follows:- 2016 Discount Rate 1.9% Price Inflation 1.9% Salary Increases 2.9% State Pension Increases 1.9% Assumed Pension Increases 2.4%
Life Expectancy The mortality basis explicitly allows for improvements in life expectancy over time, so that life expectancy at retirement will depend on the year in which a member attains retirement age. The table below shows the life expectancy for members attaining age 65 in 2016 and 2036.
Year of Attaining Age 65 2016 2036
Life expectancy – male 21.1 years 23.6 years Life expectancy – female 22.4 years 24.7 years
e) Actuarial Loss 2016 €
Experienced Loss on Retirement Benefits in the period (160,000) Actuarial Loss Arising from Change in Liability Valuation Assumptions (1,800,000) Total Actuarial Loss for the period ended 31 December 2016 (1,960,000)
APPROVAL OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The financial statements were approved by the Board on 25 May 2017.
35