Do you have to have photography permit in Dublin?

I was in Dublin yesterday, taking photographs of new buildings and the developments down near Mayor Street (i'm an architecture student, so I was interested in how it was developing)... and a man...

I was in Dublin yesterday, taking photographs of new buildings and the developments down near Mayor Street (i'm an architecture student, so I was interested in how it was developing)... and a man in a security outfit stopped me and asked if I had a permit to take these photos.
Why would I need a permit to use a camera?!?? It was not a building site, it was just part of the city; some of the buildings were finished and some werent.
Does anyone know if this bloke was pulling my leg, or if Dublin is actually that bureaucratic that you have to seek permission to use your camera in the city?!

Priscilla Duck	All true, just to add: If you want to photograph the interior of some buildings, you may need a permit and should check with staff, as the owners may have copyright protected artwork on display inside. Also many 4 and 5 star hotels don't allow photography in their public areas in order to ensure the privacy of their guests. Other than that, you should be fine. As long as you are not on private property, you can dismiss anyone who challenges you.

jk	No you dont. My father is an artist and he spends plenty of time taking photos around the city centre.

agooddub	I suspect he was part of the Developers security, and didn't want you photographing a work in progress. Sounds reasonable, as you could have been from a competitor or rival firm and was stealing ideas on building techniques. You will have no problem with photographing completed buildings new or old.