The Heritage Council has announced funding of almost €200,000 for 46 local museums and archives across the State.
The announcement coincides with preparations for International Museums Day, which takes place on Thursday next, May 18th. The theme this year is "Museums and Young People".
There are more than 200 museums across the State. Included in the State's museums are the Flying Boat Museum at Foynes in Co Clare, the National Print Museum in Beggars Bush, Dublin, and the Steam Museum in Stradbally, Co Laois.
Many small museums operate on a seasonal or volunteer basis but, according to Dr Hugh Maguire, museums and archives officer with the Heritage Council, they have "an enormous social and educational impact and provide unique tourism products".
A listing of local museums participating in International Museums Day is available at www.heritagecouncil.ie
