Donegal Railway Museum's new manager Martin Gilroy will embrace challenges ahead
Martin Gilroy from Drumkeen has taken over Niall McCaughan, who is now GoVisit Inishowen's new manager.
Donegal Railway Museum's new manager has formally introduced himself.
Martin Gilroy from Drumkeen has taken over Niall McCaughan, who is now GoVisit Inishowen's new manager.
"I’m delighted to have stepped into the cab as Manager here at the Donegal Railway Museum," Martin said. "I cut my teeth in the heritage and tourism sector as Marketing and Events Coordinator of the James Joyce Centre, Dublin 1, where I was a core member of the Bloomsday Festival team.
"I moved back to Donegal while finishing my PhD last year, and when I saw this opportunity come up I knew it was exactly the kind of challenge I wanted to take on next.
"I must admit that when I came onboard I didn’t know my Narrow from my Standard Gauge (I’m learning!), but in my research I spent a lot of time thinking about the historical development of transport infrastructure and its effect on local economies, ways of life and cultural expression.
"Part of my vision for the museum is to focus on how the story of the railways is also the story of Donegal and its people, shaping the way they lived, worked, socialised and engaged with the rest of the country.
"Don’t worry though - I have other ideas too, like further developing the family-friendly and accessible aspects of our museum, collaborating with local artists and musicians, and of course continuing the ongoing work of rescuing, restoring and showcasing railway artefacts. And needless to say, like everyone else in the county I want to do my part in trying to right historical wrongs and bring rail travel back to Donegal!"