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 (LCSP ).
The initiative aims to gather views from people aged 12 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 on 1 May, Loughrea Library on 8 May, and in An Cheathrú Rua and Oughterard on 15 May. A final session is scheduled for Oranmore Library on 29 May, with additional engagement events planned for June on Inis Mór, Inis Oírr and Inishbofin.
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.
He continued that this consultation process is about listening directly to the people of County Galway. 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.”
LCSP Coordinator Marie Nicholson said the aim is to build an evidence-based plan that reflects real concerns in communities.
“The partnership is urging people from all parts of the county to take part. Local insight is essential in identifying concerns and setting future priorities. All responses will be treated anonymously.”
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 on 14 April, members confirmed plans for the public consultations and survey, and discussed engagement with older people, people with disabilities, young people and minority communities, as well as ongoing work by subgroups.
One LCSP meeting each year will be open to the media. This year’s public meeting will take place in September.
