Over €21k funding boost for Dundalk Museum and Highlanes Gallery
Louth County Museum is set to expand its celebration of the county's rich cultural heritage
Museums and galleries across County Louth are set to enhance their cultural offerings after securing Government funding under the Regional Museum Exhibitions Scheme 2026, with grants awarded to Louth Museum in Dundalk and Highlanes Municipal Art Gallery in Drogheda for new exhibition projects celebrating the county's artistic and cultural legacy.
Louth County Museum is set to expand its celebration of the county's rich cultural heritage after securing funding under a national grants scheme announced by the Government.
The museum has been awarded €6,100 through the Regional Museum Exhibitions Scheme 2026 to create a new display showcasing Louth's achievements in music, literature, theatre and film.
The funding will be used to design, construct and install a series of display cases adjoining the museum's existing exhibition on the county's sporting history on the first floor gallery.
Once completed, the new exhibition will feature artefacts highlighting the contributions of Louth's artistic figures, creating an expanded celebration of the county's local heroes.
Also benefiting locally is Highlanes Municipal Art Gallery in Drogheda, which has been awarded €15,000 to develop a major exhibition and publication celebrating the work of renowned artist Norah McGuinness.
The exhibition will present new perspectives on McGuinness's life and legacy alongside the work of her contemporary Nano Reid and invited contemporary artists, complemented by a dynamic public programme aimed at deepening audiences' understanding of the artists and their enduring influence.
The grant forms part of a nationwide investment of €273,615 announced by the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O'Donovan TD, to support 25 projects at local and regional museums across Ireland.
The grant forms part of a nationwide investment of €273,615 announced by the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O'Donovan TD, to support 25 projects at local and regional museums across Ireland.
The Regional Museum Exhibitions Scheme aims to enhance museum exhibitions, improve visitor experiences, encourage greater public access and strengthen museums as tourism attractions within their local communities.
Announcing the funding, Minister O'Donovan said he was pleased to support projects that help cultural organisations improve their exhibitions and the services they provide.
"I am delighted to announce this funding of €273,615 for our local and regional museums. Through this scheme, my Department continues to support projects that help cultural organisations enhance their exhibitions, improve visitor experiences and strengthen the valuable services they provide to their communities.
"These institutions play a vital role in preserving and sharing our culture and heritage throughout the country. Our local and regional museums care for a rich and diverse collection of religious, cultural and historical artefacts, offering opportunities for learning, discovery and enjoyment for visitors of all ages. By safeguarding and promoting our shared heritage, they make an important contribution to community life, and I wish them every success in their future."
Among the other projects receiving funding are maritime history exhibitions in Waterford, artist exhibitions at Highlanes Municipal Art Gallery and the National Print Museum, display enhancements at Cork's Butter Museum and a new exhibition at Limerick Museum focusing on the John McCarthy Circus Archive.