Ukrainian refugees throw party to thank new Galway hosts

Nine Ukrainians – four families of women and their children – were brought to Galway by the castle’s owner, Barry Haughian, in early March when he decided to lend a hand to those fleeing the horrors unfolding in their homeland since Russia invaded in February.

Speaking to the Galway City Tribune, Barry says he has since flown in another two people who were ‘understandably nervous’ to come back with him when he drove across Europe to transport the first families to Galway in early March.

And with the eleven of them now settled in the castle, Barry says they were anxious to do something to express their gratitude to the people who have supported them over the past few weeks.

“They put on a huge spread of food for around 30 people because they wanted to say thanks to the people who have given them unbelievable support – people have been hugely welcoming. Even last weekend, there were people dropping in Easter eggs to the kids."

Privacy is important too, he continues, and people have been making contact with him before arriving up to the castle. Five of the castle’s new residents have secured work in recent weeks, says Barry, with support from local businesses and the children have joined local schools.

“It’s just great that we have this happy story and that we were able to make their lives a little bit better after all they’ve been through,” says Barry.

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