McCausland visits Somme Museum

Culture Minister, Nelson McCausland, today visited the Somme Museum in Newtownards to view the historical exhibitions on offer to the public.

The Somme Museum opened in 1994 as an educational facility and tourist attraction. It examines Northern Ireland and the Irish Republic’s role in the First World War.

During the tour the Minister said: “"I welcome this opportunity to view the work carried out by the Somme Association, in particular I enjoyed learning of the local community involvement in the First World War. The Museum and the Somme Association have an excellent education programme which teaches schoolchildren about the part played by both Unionists and Nationalists in the Great War.

"In the current economic climate, I am pleased that my Department has once again been able to secure £30,000 funding for the museum for the 2010/11 financial year.

“I would encourage everyone in Northern Ireland to take time to visit the Somme Museum, to remember and learn more about the contribution and sacrifice made by the people of Ulster in both World Wars."

Notes to editors:

1. The Minister was given a guided tour of the facility by the Somme Association's Director, Mrs Carol Walker and the Association's Chair Dr Ian Adamson.
2. Media enquiries should be addressed to the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure Press Office Tel (028) 9051 5047 or email press.office@dcalni.gov.uk Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.