As Galway City lights up after dark, bins are getting a bold new look at the Spanish Arch and the Claddagh — so partygoers won’t miss them this summer. Five standout bins have had a makeover to grab attention and drive home the message: "Every Litter Bit Hurts". Galway City Council, An Garda Síochána, and night-time businesses are joining forces to keep the party going and the streets sparkling. So when you're out soaking up Galway’s legendary night vibes, remember: Use the bin — or take it with you. Let’s keep Galway gorgeous, even after sundown.
Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Mike Cubbard said, “I’m delighted to see the streets of Galway City full of people enjoying the city as the sun goes down, whether on holidays or a night out. There’s nowhere better to kick back and relax whether you’re going to a festival or just in for an ice cream. Unfortunately, when the sun rises again, we’re seeing extraordinary levels of waste on the city streets, sometimes beside empty bins. Galway City Council invests substantial resources into keeping our city clean, with the Litter Management Unit out on the streets every day, rain or shine, from 5am - but this level of waste is very challenging to deal with. It looks terrible, and it can end up in watercourses and impacting on wildlife. Like the bins say, ‘Every Litter Bit Hurts’ - If you have waste whether it’s a coffee cup, a sandwich wrapper or drinks bottle – use a bin, or bring it with you – either home, or to another bin”.
Local businesses involved in the night time economy and An Garda Síochána are backing the message.
Lisa Regan, Vice Chairperson, Galway’s Westend Traders Association said, “In Galway’s Westend, we take litter seriously - it’s our home, our community, and we’re proud of it. We’re out regularly doing litter picks, and we see first-hand the incredible work done every single day by the Galway City Council ground staff. But this is a shared responsibility. If you’re in the area, respect it. Have a bit of cop on, clean up after yourself, leave no trace, and mind your manners.”
Superintendent Paudie O’Shea, Gaillimh Garda Station said, “An Garda Síochána fully supports this campaign.”
Visitors to Spanish Arch and the Claddagh will see bright colourful panels on five bins in the area, with messages saying ‘Every Litter Bit Hurts’; Ná Caith Uait É’; and ‘I hate that empty feeling’ – taking a light hearted approach to serious point.
Rolls of plastic bags will also be made available, to encourage people to collect their waste instead of leaving it scattered along the waterside.
A video showcasing the sights facing the Litter Management Unit is currently running on social media, reminding people to enjoy their time in Galway, but don’t let a moment of laziness or inattention ruin our city.
Watch the video on Galway City Council social media accounts (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Linked In).
