The National Aquatic Centre was officially opened by the Taoiseach, Mr Bertie Ahern, TD, on Monday, 10 March, 2003.  The Centre 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.

The National Aquatic Centre is one of the world’s largest indoor water centres.  It comprises:-

• 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;
• Seating for 2,500 spectators;
• Extensive leisure waters (AquaZone) including adventure water rides, with children’s play pool and wave pool;
• A fitness centre (ToneZone);
• Café and Reception Area.

The capital cost of the National Aquatic Centre was €62.5 Million and the project was delivered on time and within budget.

The National Aquatic Centre, which was originally operated under lease by a private operator, reverted back into State ownership on 1 December 2006.  The National Aquatic Centre is now under the remit of the National Sports Campus Development Authority and is operated by a wholly owned subsidiary of the NSCDA.

Since coming under NSCDA control, the National Aquatic Centre has gone from strength to strength. In 2008 over 700,000 people used the facilities of the Centre.