City museum refutes claims that building is not fit for purpose

Galway Bay fm newsroom – Galway City Museum is refuting recent claims that the building is ‘not fit for purpose’.
Director Eithne Verling says that while issues and challenges exist, the museum is a suitable venue and recent reports paint an inaccurate picture of the building.
In a presentation at this week’s meeting of the city council, Museum Director Eithne Verling said claims that the museum has been unable to obtain important artefacts due to environmental concerns are incorrect.
She told those in attendance that the museum has one of the biggest collections from the National Museum outside of Dublin, including a very important bust of Eamonn Ceannt.
She admitted that while the design of the building presents certain challenges, staff have done an outstanding job in remedying problems – and additional funding is being sought to address remaining issues.
It comes as the museum has lodged an application with Failte Ireland for funding for a 6.5 million euro extension to the existing building.
The meeting also heard that the possability of installing the museum’s full medieval collection into Comerford House, the original site of Galway City Museum, is being considered.
Councillors were also informed that other plans to increase revenue streams to allow greater opening hours include the opening of a gift shop, paid re-enactments and charges for tourists.