For decades, Keith Finnegan’s voice has been part of the soundtrack of life in Galway. From early morning interviews with local heroes to discussions about the city’s culture, sport, and community life, he has been a trusted companion to thousands of listeners across the West. Now, the veteran broadcaster is embarking on a new journey — one that will see him continue to champion Galway, but this time on a global stage.
Galway City Council recently appointed Keith as the city’s first International Relations Officer, a new role designed to strengthen Galway’s global relationships and showcase the city as a world-class place to live, invest, study, work, and visit. Working within the Tourism and Economic Development team, Keith will lead a programme of international engagement that promotes Galway’s many European and global designations, from UNESCO City of Film to European Region of Gastronomy and EU Net Zero City.
For Keith, who was born and raised in Galway, this role is more than a new chapter — it’s a continuation of a lifelong passion. “Galway has always been close to my heart,” he says. “It’s a city that thrives on creativity, connection, and community. I’ve been lucky enough to tell its stories for many years, and now I have the chance to help write its next one on an international scale.”
Keith Finnegan’s name is instantly recognisable to anyone who has spent time in the West of Ireland. For over thirty years, he hosted one of the region’s most popular radio programmes Galway Talks on Galway Bay fm, becoming a familiar and reassuring presence in homes and workplaces every morning. Known for his warmth, empathy, and sense of place, Keith gave voice to the people and stories that define Galway.
But his connection to the city extends far beyond the studio. Through his longstanding involvement with the Spirit of Galway Committee, Keith has represented the city at countless civic and cultural events abroad, particularly in Galway’s twinned cities of Milwaukee and Chicago. Whether speaking at public events, welcoming visiting delegations, or celebrating Galway’s culture overseas, Keith has consistently carried the pride and personality of his hometown with him.
Keith has been Galway’s ambassador long before the title was ever made official, implied Leonard Cleary, Chief Executive of Galway City Council. “He understands what makes this city special — its people, its energy, its global outlook. His appointment formalises something he’s been doing naturally for decades: connecting Galway with the wider world.”
Building bridges beyond borders
In his new role, Keith will work to strengthen Galway’s relationships with its twinned and partner cities, building on decades of cooperation and friendship. These partnerships have long been a cornerstone of Galway’s international presence — from Lorient in France, the city’s first twinning 50 years ago, to its enduring ties with Milwaukee, Chicago, Seattle, and Bradford. Each partnership has brought opportunities for cultural exchange, education, business collaboration, and community connection.
As International Relations Officer, Keith will coordinate a structured programme of engagement designed to deepen these connections and open new doors for Galway abroad. His work will include promoting the city’s cultural achievements, exploring collaborative funding opportunities, and developing learning exchanges between Galway and its international peers.
For Mayor of Galway City, Cllr Mike Cubbard, the new role represents a vital step forward.
“In a world that’s more connected than ever, cities like Galway need to have a strong and active voice internationally,” he explains. “We already have an incredible reputation for creativity, education, and innovation. This role will help us harness that reputation and build lasting partnerships that benefit our economy and our people. Having someone like Keith, who embodies Galway’s spirit and knows its story so well, makes this appointment particularly exciting.”
A city with a global heart
Galway’s story has always been one of openness. From its origins as a medieval port city known for trade and exchange, to its modern status as one of Europe’s most vibrant small cities, Galway has continually looked outward while staying grounded in its community values. Its recognition as a European Capital of Culture, European Green Leaf City, and UNESCO City of Film are not just titles — they are reflections of a city that leads through creativity, sustainability, and collaboration.
Brian Barrett, Senior Executive Officer with Galway City Council, believes Keith’s appointment builds on that legacy:
“Galway has always been a city that reaches out, that welcomes people in and connects across borders. With this new role, we’re taking a more coordinated approach to those efforts. Keith’s experience, both professionally and personally, makes him the ideal person to represent Galway internationally.”
Among Keith’s early priorities will be the establishment of a Galway City International Relations Committee, bringing together partners from education, business, tourism, and the arts to align international efforts and maximise the city’s opportunities for growth and collaboration.
A warm welcome from abroad
The news of Keith’s appointment has been met with enthusiasm from Galway’s sister cities around the world. Karissa Perez, Director of Global Strategic Initiatives at World Business Chicago, expressed her excitement:
“Even though Galway is Chicago’s smallest Sister City by population, its impact is enormous. Keith’s appointment ensures that our partnership will continue to flourish and deliver new opportunities for our citizens.”
For Keith Finnegan, the new role is both an honour and a responsibility. “It’s about representing Galway in all its diversity and dynamism,” he says. “Whether it’s culture, education, innovation, or community, there’s so much that Galway has to offer the world. My goal is to help make sure that story continues to be told — loudly and proudly.”
With his deep local roots, global outlook, and lifelong passion for connecting people, Keith Finnegan is perfectly placed to guide Galway into its next chapter as a city that is proudly local and confidently global — a city whose voice, once again, will be heard around the world.
This article is funded by Comisiún na Meán.
