Speaking at the event the Minister said: “For museums to be successful and to attract crowds, they must have interesting collections and artefacts on show for visitors to see. And collections need to be displayed against the right backdrop to show them off to their best advantage. Equally museums must be inviting and have modern facilities to meet visitors needs.”
The Minister continued: “Our museums and collections offer a window upon history and tell us who we are and where we came from. They are an essential component in enhancing the quality of life for the people of Northern Ireland as we emerge from troubled times and move towards a peaceful, prosperous and inclusive society.”
The Minister was given a guided tour of the Museum, which re-opened today after the construction and installation of a new Armada exhibition, An Armada Shipwreck, La Trinidad Valencera and the refurbishment of the Story of Derry exhibition.
The Minister added: "It is a particular honour to be here today on International Museum Day. Museums are an important means of cultural exchange, enrichment of cultures and development of mutual understanding, co-operation and peace.
"I hope that many people will visit the newly opened Tower Museum and enjoy the fascinating collection here which is doing great work towards that ethos."
NOTES TO EDITORS:
This award-winning museum, originally opened in 1992, tells the tangled story of Derry/Londonderry from its origins in the 6th century right up to the present day using high technology and modern audio-visual presentation methods.
The new exhibition tells the story of the Spanish’s Armada’s journey around the Irish coast. It deals with the recovery of artefacts by local divers from the Trinidad Valencera, shipwrecked off the coast of Donegal in 1588 and discovered in 1971.
The museum also contains the newly refurbished 'Story of Derry' exhibition, an extensive exhibition telling the unique story of this city and presenting visitors with a comprehensive insight to the growth and development of Derry/Londonderry from pre- history to today.
Media enquiries should be addressed to the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure Press Office, tel: 028 9025 8901 or email press.office@decalni.gov.uk
