Speaking at the event the Minister said: “Museums play a significant role in enhancing life experiences for all our citizens. They provide a window to the past, telling the story of our history and heritage, which helps us develop the future. They do this effectively as evidenced by the ever increasing visitor numbers.
“This survey provides a valuable insight into the scale of our collections which NIMC are responsible for, ensuring that the millions of artefacts are cared for and preserved for future generations.”
The NIMC objectives in completing the survey of museums collections were to find out the number, type and significance of objects held; establish strengths and weaknesses in caring for collections; and to provide data to assist future work to improve standards and inform planning in museums.
The Minister continued: “The report provides a baseline against which those charged with preserving collections can measure improvements. I commend this report to all our museums as it provides a wake up call to those falling behind recognised standards and provides a reminder to others that there is no room for complacency.”
The audit covered 19 local authority museums, 15 independent museums and four national museums in Northern Ireland and found that over 1.7million objects are held. 20% of these objects were deemed to have local significance; 43% national significance; 14% UK/Ireland wide significance and 23% of international importance.
The survey is a significant piece of work in terms of looking at museums collections across Northern Ireland. NIMC see the weaknesses identified as significant and in need of further consideration via a collections development strategy for NI.
Notes to Editors:
In the course of the survey various aspects of collections management were reviewed. These included:
Environment – a museum’s ability to provide appropriate storage for collections; Housekeeping – cleaning and handling of objects; Storage; Documentation; and Security.
