About

Who are the friends

The Friends of the National Collections of Ireland is a charitable body formed in 1924 by the painter Sarah Purser and a group of friends for the purpose of acquiring works of art and objects of historical importance and donating them to national and regional art galleries and museums throughout Ireland for the education and enjoyment of the public.

The FNCI has presented nearly 1,000 works, dating from the 14th century to the present day, to public collections all over Ireland. These include paintings, drawings, prints, sculpture, carvings, silver, textiles, stained glass, ceramics, books, manuscripts and furniture.

The FNCI is the only body with the aim of benefitting all museums and galleries across the island of Ireland.

The FNCI also advises on and administers gifts and bequests.

In addition to donating works to public collections, the FNCI runs a significant programme of cultural activities aimed at supporting new collections. Visits, led by experts, are organised to unique collections, including some not usually open to the public. The FNCI also facilitates the appropriate distribution of bequests and donations.

The FNCI is a registered charity for tax purposes (Charity No. CHY 5214).

OFFICERS

Michael D. Higgins

Patron

Dr John Turpin

President

Mr Matthew Russell

Vice President

The Earl of Iveagh

Vice President, 1986

Ms June Lattimore

Honorary Secretary

Mr John Kelly

Honorary Treasurer

 


COUNCIL

Miranda, Lady Broadbent

Dr Abdul Bulbulia

Dr Michael Burns

Dr Hilary Carey

Ms Mia Craig

Mr Arthur Duff

The Earl of Iveagh

Ms Anne Kearney-Farrelly

Mr John Kelly

Ms Christina Kennedy

Ms June Lattimore

Mr Eamonn McEneaney

Ms Marie-Louise Martin

Dr Kieran O’Conor

Ms Erika O’Reilly

Mr Colum O’Riordan

Mr Peter Pearson

Mr Matthew Russell

Mr George Stacpoole

Dr John Turpin

Ms Jennifer Waldron-Lynch


COMMITTEES

Visits & Events Sub-committee

Miranda, Lady Broadbent

Ms Mia Craig

Ms Anne Kearney Farrelly

Mr John Kelly

 

 

Acquisitions Sub-Committee

Mr Matthew Russell

Dr John Turpin

Dr Hilary Carey

Dr Abdul Bulbulia

 

 

Membership Sub-Committee

Mrs Jennifer Waldron-Lynch

Ms Erika O’Reilly

 

Website Sub-Committee

Mr John Kelly

Mr Colum O’Riordan


OUR PATRON

OUR PATRON

Michael D. Higgins, the President of Ireland

President Michael D. Higgins sent a letter of congratulation the FNCI on its centenary which will be read at the 26 November 2024 reception in the NGI.

Charity Status

The FNCI is a registered charity for tax purposes (Tax Registration Number 9720393Q, Charity Number CHY 5214).

The FNCI Registered Charity Number (RCN) is 20007423.