Minister Catherine Martin has launched a late-night museum pilot scheme in support of the Night-Time Economy today.

The Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media was joined in the Little Museum of Dublin by the museum's director Trevor White, as well as Executive Director of the Irish Museums Association Gina O’Kelly to make the announcement this morning.

The scheme aims to support small museums and galleries across the country to open for later hours, try new events and encourage a diversity of arts on offer in small towns and villages.

Just announced: up to €1m in funding for local museums & galleries to enable later openings & new live event programming

Up to €10k is available for each applicant which will result in new, rich and diverse cultural offerings in our towns & villages 💚https://t.co/MOiCJKHnAg pic.twitter.com/OMweRbU2hz

— Catherine Martin TD (@cathmartingreen) May 17, 2023

Speaking at the launch of the scheme in the Little Museum of Dublin, Minister Martin said:

“International Museum day is being marked this week and we celebrate how Museums and Galleries throughout the country are the beating heart of culture in our communities. They are the keepers of our history, reflect our cultural identity and provide a space for creativity which future generations can enjoy. They play a vital role in smaller towns and villages supporting open conversations, promoting positive mental health and are inclusive to all."

"A thriving Night Time Economy is valuable to communities and I would like to encourage local museums and galleries to look at their spaces through a late night lens. This support announced today aims to welcome new audiences through a variety of innovative programming and activities. Bringing life to longer evenings for both communities and tourists alike.”

Ireland's night-time economy has fallen far behind international standards. The public and campaign groups such as Give Us The Night have regularly indicated to government figures that there is little cultural activity to explore for tourists and natives across the country during late hours.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Sunil Sharpe (@sunilsharpe)

A Night-Time Economy Taskforce assembled by Minister Martin and the Department in 2020 found that traditionally, the Night-Time Economy sector in Ireland has been substantially comprised of activities and events located in venues where alcohol is available.

While these venues will continue to play an important role in the Night-Time Economy of the future, the taskforce found that there is also a role for events and activities that do not involve or centre on the sale of alcohol.

Minister Martin's announcement follows recommendations from the taskforce to extend the opening hours of national cultural institutions, pilot new projects in galleries and museums, and focus on diversity and inclusivity by bringing more venues into late night usein urban and rural areas.

The Department has made recent moves to improve Irish nightlife, including appointing night-time advisors to nine towns and cities, who are currently working with local authorities to enhance nightlife economies in those areas.