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Eithne Shortall: Did you know you own the paintings in the National Gallery? We all do

A conversation about money with one’s kid is not complete without talking about shared public space – and about the things money can’t buy

Three children enjoying the National Gallery. Picture: Naoise Culhane

My son is starting to get his head around the concept of money. He has recently realised that his wealth is not determined by the number of notes in his piggy bank, but by the figures written on them. So, it’s not four “monies”; it’s €50.

It’s been one of the more depressing life lessons, as it has strayed into conversations about why a house-hunting friend hasn’t been able to buy a home (even with ...