Public asked to play a part in making Galway safer
Members of the public are being asked to have their say on safety in their communities as part of a new consultation process launched by the Galway County Local Community Safety Partnership.
The initiative aims to gather views from people aged twelve and over on issues affecting safety, wellbeing and inclusion, with the public’s feedback set to play a key role in shaping a new Community Safety Plan.
A series of public meetings will be held in libraries and community venues across the county over the coming weeks, giving residents an opportunity to raise concerns and suggest solutions directly.
Meetings will take place from 11am to 1pm and 2pm to 4pm at Tuam Library this Friday, May 1, Loughrea Library on Friday week, May 8, and in An Cheathrú Rua and Oughterard on May 15.
A final session is scheduled for Oranmore Library on May 29, with additional engagement events planned for June on Inis Mór, Inis Oírr and Inishbofin.
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A countywide online survey has also been launched through Galway County Council’s website at www.galway.ie, asking people about safety in public spaces, online, on public transport, in housing and in rural areas. Survey participants are also invited to highlight their main concerns and put forward ideas that could help improve safety across their communities.
LCSP Vice Chair Aodán McDonogh said the process is designed to ensure the plan reflects lived experience across the county.
“This consultation process is about listening directly to the people of Galway,” he said.
“Community safety must be shaped by the lived experience of residents in every town, village and island community. I would encourage everyone, especially young people and those from marginalised groups, to take part in the survey and attend the public meetings,” he added.
The LCSP, established in late 2025 to replace Joint Policing Committees, brings together agencies including Galway County Council, An Garda Síochána, the HSE, Tusla and community groups. It is tasked with developing a three-year Community Safety Plan and overseeing local initiatives, supported by the National Office for Community Safety.
At its meeting in April, members confirmed plans for the public consultations and survey, and discussed engagement with older people, people with disabilities, young people and minority communities.
Just one LCSP meeting each year will be open to the media. This year’s public meeting will take place in September.