The National Aquatic Centre was developed by the Irish Government to be a national centre for all aquatic sports in Ireland. Built at a cost of €62.5 million, it was delivered both on time and within budget.

The Centre was officially launched in March 2003. It successfully hosted the swimming events of the 2003 Special Olympics World Summer Games, the first time this event was held outside of the United States. It also hosted the European Short Course Swimming Championships in December 2003.

• A 10-lane 50 metre x 25 metre international standard swimming pool with two moveable floors which will allow it to be reconfigured for other uses;
• A 25 metre international standard diving pool/warm- up pool;
• Extensive leisure waters including adventure water rides, with children's play pool; and wave pool;
• Seating for 2,500 spectators;
• A Fitness Centre;
• Café and Reception Area.

• The Premier Venue for Competitive Swimming, Diving and Water Polo in Ireland;
• National Facility for the training of our high performance swimmers;
• Host venue for International, National and Provincial competitions;
• Actively promoting and developing Swimming Participation at all levels;
• Public facility for promoting Health and Fitness.

The National Aquatic Centre, which was originally operated under lease by a private operator, reverted back into State ownership in December 2006. Since reverting then it has gone from strength to strength. In 2008 over 700,000 people used the facilities of the Centre.

The National Aquatic Centre is now under the remit of the National Sports Campus Development Authority and is operated by NSCDA (Operations) Ltd which is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Authority. The Chairperson is Mary Davis, and the other Directors are Pat Hickey, John Treacy and Christy O'Connell. The General Manager is Teifion Williams.

http://www.nationalaquaticcentre.ie/index.php