John Bruton
Ceist:216 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht if he proposes to introduce legislation to establish a board of trustees for the National Museum; and if so, when.
Written Answers. - National Museum.
I have already announced my intention to bring to Government as soon as possible proposals to establish an independent board to oversee the National Museum. I believe that such a board will secure the future of the Museum and enable it to meet the challenges facing it over the coming years. The Museum must be given autonomous structures if it is to develop the independent and creative voice which is the prerequisite of a modern cultural institution. I will have consultations with those involved before I bring my proposals to Government, particularly those who work in the Irish museum sector and continue to provide a valuable public service within structures that need amendment so as to function better in modern conditions and in what I envisage will be an exciting future for the museum sector.