Peadar Clohessy
Question:45 Mr. Clohessy asked the Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht if he will introduce a specific policy for the development of museums in Ireland. [4686/95]
Written Answers. - Museums Development.
With regard to the National Museum, my policy is already well developed and well known. As I have indicated previously, it is my intention to introduce legislative proposals to establish autonomous boards for the National Museum and the National Library who will have the responsibility, inter alia, to develop policies with regard to the collection, cataloguing, research, conservation and display of artifacts which are part of our national movable heritage.
With regard to local authority and private museums, the situation is more complex as, in general, such museums are not directly funded through my Department. There is a view that there is an absence of a nationally co-ordinated policy in this area. On the other hand, one would not wish to see local initiatives stifled by rigid national policies and I am not in favour of centralised direction except where it can be clearly justified. Accordingly, while detailed policies on every aspect of the operation of such museums need not be laid down rigidly, there may be a need for a standardised approach to the care, management and display of artifacts of national importance, wherever they are held.
My Department has engaged in initial, largely informal, consultations with some interested parties on how such matters might be addressed and what role my Department might play. Such consultations are ongoing.
The Heritage Council, which on the enactment of the Heritage Bill, will be established on a statutory basis will also have a function in developing policies on the identification, protection, preservation and enhancement of,inter alia, archaeological and heritage objects and to promote interest, knowledge and pride in and facilitate appreciation and enjoyment of the national heritage.