Originally built in 1745 for the Duke of Leinster, this stately Georgian mansion is now home to the National Parliament of Ireland. Its design is said to have inspired that of the White House - itself designed by an Irish architect. The Royal Dublin Society bought the building in 1815 and added a lecture theatre - now the Dáil chamber. The Republic of Ireland's first government acquired part of the building in 1922, and the remainder two years' later. There are two houses of the Oireachtas (National Parliament). Dáil Eireann is the House of Representatives and its TDs (Teachtaí Dála) or Assembly Delegates are elected by the public. Seanad Éireann is The Senate and its 60 representatives are either nominated or elected. Tours take between 25 -30mins, and when the House is in session it may also be possible to sit for a short period of time in the Public Gallery. People wishing to tour the Houses of the Oireachtas need to be sponsored by a Member/Embassy. Either contact your local TD or your Embassy or Honorary Consular Representative who will contact the Events Desk on your behalf to make the necessary appointment.