Communities Minister Gordon Lyons MLA has appointed Jessica Hoyle as Chair of the Board of the Northern Ireland Museums Council (NIMC) for a term from 1 February 2026 to 31 January 2030.

The Minister has also appointed four new board members for the same period: Ruth Balmer, Liesa Johnston, Celine McStravick, and Laura Patrick.

The Northern Ireland Museums Council serves as the lead development body for local museums in Northern Ireland. It supports UK Museum Accreditation standards, delivers grant programmes, provides training and professional development, and offers expert advice and advocacy.

Through strategic partnerships and community-focused initiatives, the council assists museums in engaging audiences and maintaining operations as spaces for learning, creativity, and cultural participation.