A new set of measures aimed at improving community safety in County Galway has been discussed by the Galway County Local Community Safety Partnership (LCSP ), including new bye-laws regulating alcohol consumption in public places and a major public consultation on safety concerns.
Members of the Partnership met this week at Galway Chamber of Commerce House where they reviewed progress on a number of initiatives under the development of the County Community Safety Plan.
A key issue discussed was the formal adoption of the Tuam Municipal District (MD ) Control of Consumption and Possession of Alcohol in Public Places Bye-Laws 2026, which will come into effect on 7 July.
The bye-laws regulate the consumption and possession of alcohol in public areas across the Tuam MD and will be supported by measures including public information campaigns, signage and cooperation between An Garda Síochána, Community Wardens and local partners.
The Partnership said the aim is to improve safety in public spaces while ensuring that parks, streets and other shared amenities remain accessible and welcoming to communities.
Water safety was also highlighted as a priority, with members receiving a presentation on the risks associated with water-related incidents.
The Partnership was told that many incidents happen near shorelines and in familiar locations, with rivers and lakes posing particular risks. It also highlighted that water emergencies are often time-critical and that greater awareness, prevention and early intervention can help reduce the risk of serious incidents.
Meanwhile, a countywide online survey is ongoing through Galway County Council’s website at www.galway.ie, asking people about their experiences and views on safety in public spaces, online, on public transport, in housing and in rural areas.
The survey forms part of wider public engagement on the County Community Safety Plan, with consultations already held in Ballinasloe, Tuam, Loughrea, An Cheathrú Rua, Oughterard and Oranmore. Further meetings are planned for Clifden and the Islands.
LCSP Chair Cllr Andrew Reddington said community input will be central to developing a plan that reflects local issues and delivers practical actions to improve safety across County Galway.
“Those taking part are being asked to identify their main concerns and suggest ideas that could help improve safety in their own communities,” he said.
LCSP Coordinator Marie Nicholson said that they have already held public consultations with further events planned.
“We are also working with a range of groups, including older people, migrant communities and the Traveller Community, to ensure that a wide range of voices are represented in the Safety Plan.”
“The online survey has been an important part of this process, with feedback coming in through social media, partner organisations and local networks. We are encouraging more people, particularly young people and members of migrant communities, to take part and share their views. The experiences and ideas of communities across Galway will help shape practical actions to improve safety and wellbeing throughout the county.”
