Funding of almost €300,000 is to be granted to two of Galway's premier arts and cultural facilities - the Galway City Museum and the Town Hall Theatre under the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs' Arts and Culture Capital Scheme 2016 - 2018.
The Galway City Museum will receive €180,280 to address "environmental issues" which are "essential for a museum's ability to display historic artefacts"; while the Town Hall will get €118,129, to upgrade its lighting system, purchase a digital projector, improve access for people with special requirements, and enhance the security system.
The allocations have been welcomed by Galway West Fine Gael TD and Minister of State for Gaeltacht Affairs and Natural Resources, Seán Kyne, who called it "a boost to Galway's preparations" to become European City of Culture 2020.
"This investment is a great boost for Galway's vibrant arts and cultural sector," he said. "The funding will help the museum in attracting new and return visitors while the funding for the Town Hall will support its productions, grow local and visiting audiences, and ensure the venue's accessibility for all patrons."
The Galway funding is part of a €9 million investment by the Department, with more than 85 per cent of the funding being allocated to projects and facilities outside Dublin in line with the key elements of the Action Plan for Rural Development to support arts and cultural facilities across the country.
